Nasal polyps are soft growths that form on the lining of the nose or sinuses. They are not typically cancerous yet can grow large enough to interfere with your sense of smell or make breathing through your nose difficult. Though no one knows exactly why they develop, nasal polyps are believed to result from long-term swelling and inflammation caused by allergies, asthma or infection.

Nasal polyps: Symptoms

Small polyps often cause no symptoms, yet large polyps can block nasal passages and lead to a sinus infection. Symptoms may include a runny nose, stuffiness, sneezing, headache, or loss of taste and smell. Some patients describe the condition as having a persistent head cold that won’t go away.

Nasal polyps: Treatment

Medication

Your physician may begin your treatment plan with medication.

• Nasal steroid sprays – to shrink polyps and open nasal passages
• Corticosteroid – to reduce swelling and congestion
• Allergy medicines – to reduce symptoms
• Antibiotics – to treat a sinus infection

Surgery

If medication has not been effective, your physician may recommend surgery to remove the polyps.

• Our experienced ENT specialists will perform endoscopic sinus surgery, a minimally invasive technique with a tiny camera and instruments, to remove the polyps and open your nasal passages.
• For many patients, this can be done as an outpatient procedure.
• Though nasal polyps can grow back, your specialist may prescribe medication to help prevent regrowth.

Nasal polyps: Our Expertise

Experience you can trust: We have accomplished rhinology/sinus surgery specialists with experience in diagnosing and treating nasal polyps. Our physicians will listen to your needs to create an individualized treatment plan that fits your unique situation.

Advanced research and technology: As a part of a leading academic medical institution, our ENT team can offer you the most advanced research-based treatments to provide you with the best possible outcomes.