Nasal Polys

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous growths that develop on the lining of your nose or sinuses. They often appear as a result of long-term inflammation from conditions such as asthma, recurring infection, allergies, or immune disorders.

• Blocked or stuffy nose
• Runny nose
• Post-nasal drip (mucus running down the back of your throat)
• Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste
• Snoring
• Facial pressure or headaches
• Frequent sinus infections
  

The exact cause isn’t always known, but they are linked to chronic inflammation in the nasal passages. Common associated conditions include:

• Asthma
• Chronic sinusitis
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Aspirin sensitivity
• Cystic fibrosis
  

Nasal polyps are usually diagnosed by a healthcare professional during a physical examination. They may use a small camera called a nasal endoscope to look inside your nose. Sometimes, imaging tests such as a CT scan may be needed.

NASAL SPRAYS:

• Steroid nasal sprays (e.g. mometasone, fluticasone) can shrink the polyps and reduce inflammation.

TABLETS:

• A short course of steroid tablets (e.g. prednisolone) may be prescribed if sprays aren’t enough.

SURGERY:

• If symptoms are severe or persistent, surgery (endoscopic sinus surgery) may be needed to remove the polyps.
• Surgery can improve symptoms, but polyps can come back, so ongoing treatment is often necessary.
  

• Use a saline nasal spray or rinse regularly to keep your nasal passages clear
• Avoid known allergens and irritants
• Manage associated conditions like asthma or allergies effectively
• Follow your prescribed treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments
  

• Your symptoms don’t improve with treatment
• You notice a sudden worsening of symptoms such as loss of smell
• You experience facial swelling or severe headache
• You have difficulty breathing through your nose
  

For further advice and support, contact your GP or an ENT specialist. Useful resources:

• NHS website: www.nhs.uk
• Allergy UK: www.allergyuk.org