Do you feel as if you’re suffering from a chronic cold or nasal congestion? You may have tried over the counter medication, yet the cold and congestion doesn’t seem to go away. If so, you might be suffering from sinus polyps AKA nasal polyps rather than a cold. Sinus polyps are a benign growth that develops on the inner lining tissue or mucosa of the nose. For those who may suffer from sinus polyps, ENT Specialists will share the common symptoms, causes, and treatment available.
Sinus polyps typically develop on inflamed tissue of the nasal mucosa. The mucosa is the wet layer that protects the inside of the nose and sinus area. The mucosa also helps humidify the air as you breathe. Typically, an infection or even an allergy induced irritation can cause the mucosa to swell. From the swelling comes redness and fluid may begin to drip out. If this condition continues, sinus polyps can form. Polyps are a growth somewhat like a cyst. When it begins to grow, the nasal passages can become blocked. However there are some cases of sinus polyps that occur with sinus infections or irritation. Some other causes could be due to hereditary development of polyps. Here are some of the other known triggers of sinus polyps.
• Chronic Sinus Infections
• Allergic Rhinitis or also known as Hay Fever
• Asthma
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Churg-Strauss Syndrome
• Sensitivity to Ibuprofen and Aspirin or any Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Sinus polyps typically develop in the upper sinus area where the eyes, nose and cheekbone meets. Once the polyps get large enough, the polyp will block the nasal passage. Once the nasal passage is blocked and not able to drain properly, infections set in and congestion occurs, creating cold like symptoms. The main symptom of sinus polyps is chronic congestion. However, there are a few other symptoms such as:
• Runny nose
• A feeling of a blockage in your nose
• Postnasal drip (which is when mucus runs down the back of the throat)
• Nasal stuffiness
• Congestion
• A loss of sense of smell
• One is forced to breathe through the mouth
• Pressure in the forehead or face
• Excessive or Abnormal Snoring
• Sleep Apnea
• Regular headaches or head ache due to the infection caused by polyps
Both medication and surgery often is needed to treat sinus polyps. Medication is designed to help reduce the size of the polyps to reduce swelling and allow proper drainage. However, when the medication can’t reduce the polyp, then surgery usually follows. Nasal spray and medication is often given after surgery to help prevent the polyps from returning. However about 15% of all patients will develop polyps again. Additionally, some patients may even lose their sense of smell due to the damage done by the polyp.
If you believe you’re suffering from sinus polyps make an appointment with the ENT Specialists. We can help diagnose and treat sinus polyps and other related problems. Come and see ENT Specialists today.
