OVERVIEW

What are nasal polyps?

Normally, the nose and the four groups of sinuses near it are empty except for bones and mucosa, allowing air to flow smoothly.

Nasal polyps are new growths caused by factors such as allergies or chronic inflammation, leading to swelling and hyperplasia of the nasal or sinus mucosa. They are usually pale red or grayish-white, resembling lychee flesh in appearance—translucent, smooth, and typically not congested. Patients with nasal polyps may experience symptoms like nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and nasal congestion.

Medication can help control the size of polyps, but some require surgical removal. If the underlying causes are not addressed, recurrence is likely. Most nasal polyps have a good prognosis and do not significantly impact patients' lives.

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps mainly manifest as nasal congestion, which worsens as the polyps grow larger. In addition to nasal congestion, patients may also experience increased nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, a heavy nasal voice, snoring during sleep, a feeling of ear fullness (as if water has entered), facial pressure, headaches, and other symptoms. Hemorrhagic or necrotic polyps can also lead to recurrent nosebleeds.

However, not all patients exhibit these symptoms. A small number of patients with smaller polyps may not have noticeable symptoms.

For larger polyps, doctors can observe them directly through the nostrils. If nasal polyps persist for a long time, they may even cause nasal deformity, widening of the nasal bridge and wings, or a collapsed nose.

What adverse effects can nasal polyps cause?

• Patients with nasal polyps may experience physical discomfort due to symptoms like nasal congestion and runny nose, affecting work, study, and social interactions.

• Nasal congestion can lead to snoring and breath-holding during sleep, medically termed "obstructive sleep apnea syndrome," which may result in memory decline and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Chronic nasal congestion in children can cause long-term mouth breathing and sleep hypoxia, potentially affecting intellectual development and leading to poor facial growth.

Can nasal polyps turn into cancer?

Currently, there is no reliable medical evidence proving that nasal polyps can become malignant, so patients need not worry.

However, chronic rhinitis causes long-term, repeated irritation to the nasal mucosa, so from this perspective, nasal polyps still have the potential to become malignant. Therefore, both chronic rhinitis and nasal polyps require timely treatment.

Additionally, many malignant nasal or sinus tumors initially present with symptoms similar to nasal polyps, such as nasal congestion, or the mucosa at the junction between malignant tumors and normal nasal tissue may resemble nasal polyps. During physical examinations, only polyps may be visible, so further tests are needed for differentiation. Thus, if any abnormal growth is found in the nose, prompt medical attention is advised.

CAUSES

What causes nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps generally form due to repeated inflammatory stimulation of the nasal cavity, such as chronic rhinitis that persists for a long time.

Are nasal polyps hereditary?

Nasal polyps are not hereditary.

However, conditions like allergic rhinitis may be hereditary, and allergic rhinitis can potentially trigger nasal polyps. This is why entire families may sometimes be affected by nasal polyps.

DIAGNOSIS

What is the difference between nasal polyps, rhinitis, and sinusitis?

Both rhinitis and sinusitis are inflammations, but they occur in different locations. Rhinitis occurs in the nasal cavity, while sinusitis occurs in the sinuses surrounding the nasal cavity.

Nasal polyps, on the other hand, are growths that develop in the nasal cavity or sinuses. In most cases, patients also suffer from chronic sinusitis and may have rhinitis as well. These conditions can influence each other.

What tests are needed to diagnose nasal polyps?

• Routine nasal examination: Such as anterior rhinoscopy, where the doctor examines the nasal cavity through the nostrils in the clinic;

• Endoscopic examination: Such as nasal endoscopy;

• Imaging tests: Such as sinus CT scans;

• Nasal secretion culture: Collecting and analyzing the patient's nasal secretions to guide medication choices;

• Biopsy: If a growth is detected and a tumor cannot be ruled out, a small tissue sample is taken for pathological examination.

Depending on the condition, the doctor may perform several of these tests simultaneously.

TREATMENT

Which department should nasal polyp patients visit?

Otolaryngology (ENT) department.

Can nasal polyps be cured?

Yes, nasal polyps can be cured.

However, some cases may require prolonged treatment (weeks to months). Patients should actively cooperate with their doctor's medication and health guidance to achieve a full recovery.

How are nasal polyps treated?

• Topical treatment with nasal sprays or drops: Suitable for smaller polyps and before/after polyp removal surgery.

• Systemic medication: Usually oral drugs, with intravenous infusion for severe cases.

• Nasal irrigation or sinus puncture and irrigation: Typically used when polyps become infected and suppurate.

• Surgery: Most patients require surgery, especially those with large polyps, poor response to medication, or recurrent cases.

Doctors usually adopt a comprehensive treatment approach based on the condition.

What medications are commonly used for nasal polyps?

Medications for nasal polyps fall into two categories:

• Oral or intravenous drugs that work systemically, primarily to reduce inflammation, swelling, and promote secretion drainage.

• Local nasal medications, such as sprays, drops, or sinus irrigation solutions.

Can nasal sprays for polyps cause dependence?

Decongestants may cause dependence if misused. Other medications, when used strictly as prescribed, generally do not lead to significant dependence.

Currently, nasal sprays/drops for chronic rhinitis include three main types:

• Decongestants (e.g., ephedrine-based): Available over-the-counter, they provide short-term relief for nasal congestion but should not be used for more than a week.

• Corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide nasal spray).

• Antiallergics (e.g., azelastine nasal spray).

Do corticosteroid nasal sprays for polyps have side effects?

All medications have side effects, but their therapeutic benefits should not be overlooked due to concerns.

Corticosteroid sprays have minimal dosage and primarily act locally, so they generally cause no significant side effects.

Is surgery necessary for nasal polyps?

Most nasal polyps require surgery, except for a few small cases treatable with medication.

Why is medication needed before nasal polyp surgery?

Preoperative medication reduces bleeding during surgery, facilitates the procedure, minimizes patient trauma, and aids postoperative mucosal recovery.

How is nasal polyp surgery performed? Will there be scars?

Most nasal polyp surgeries are endoscopic. The surgeon inserts instruments through the nostrils while viewing a monitor.

The goal is to remove polyps, correct structural abnormalities (e.g., deviated septum), and open sinus passages—leaving no facial scars.

In rare cases, a small incision may be made between the upper lip and gum, but it leaves no visible scars. Temporary facial swelling or numbness may occur post-surgery.

Is nasal polyp surgery minimally invasive? Does it affect appearance?

Endoscopic nasal polyp surgery is minimally invasive, with no skin incisions or impact on appearance.

However, nasal packing (gauze or cotton) is needed for 1–2 days post-surgery to control bleeding.

What are the risks of nasal polyp surgery?

• Common risks include bleeding and infection, as with any surgery.

• The nasal/sinus area is close to the eyes and brain, separated by thin bone. Accidental damage during surgery could harm nearby structures.

It is crucial to seek treatment at a reputable hospital.

What should be noted after nasal polyp surgery? Why follow-up visits?

Post-surgery, the nasal cavity forms scabs, and mucosal swelling or small polyps may recur. Scabs and secretions can block sinus openings again, requiring doctor follow-ups for cleaning to prevent recurrence.

Postoperative care is as vital as the surgery itself—clearing scabs, removing new polyps, and ensuring sinus drainage.

Patients typically need multiple follow-ups based on recovery progress.

Why do nasal polyps recur? Can they be permanently cured?

Recurrent colds or rhinitis can irritate nasal mucosa, leading to polyp regrowth. Even after recovery, ongoing care is essential.

DIET & LIFESTYLE

How to Perform Nasal Irrigation at Home for Nasal Polyp Patients?

Doctors often recommend nasal irrigation at home for patients who have undergone nasal polyp surgery or have a history of rhinitis or sinusitis.

Currently, there are two common types of irrigation:

• Purchase various nasal irrigators. There are many models available, and specific usage instructions can be obtained from sales personnel. Add the corresponding saline solution to the irrigator along with warm water for rinsing; alternatively, physiological saline can also be used. Suitable for adults and children willing to undergo nasal irrigation, it can be used at home or in school dormitories, 1-2 times a day.

• Small spray-type nasal rinse bottles. The rinse solution is pre-mixed—simply spray a few times into the nostrils. However, the bottle cannot be reused once empty. Convenient for carrying around and can be used multiple times a day. The spray pressure is gentle, making it suitable for children who are unwilling to use nasal irrigators.

What Should Nasal Polyp Patients Pay Attention to in Daily Life and Diet?

In daily life, prevent colds, reduce the frequency of rhinitis flare-ups, strengthen the body's resistance, and maintain good exercise habits.

No special dietary restrictions are necessary. Maintain a balanced and healthy diet with a mix of meat and vegetables, and consume plenty of fruits and vegetables.

PREVENTION

How to Prevent Nasal Polyps?

• Exercise regularly, balance work and rest, and prevent colds;

• Seek timely treatment for colds or rhinitis;

• For difficult-to-cure rhinitis, such as allergic rhinitis, actively use medication to control symptoms during flare-ups;

• Patients with a history of rhinitis or sinusitis can perform nasal irrigation daily;

• If there are nasal deformities, such as a deviated septum affecting breathing or causing nosebleeds, surgical correction is necessary.