Nasal Polyps

The letter P demostrates the nasal polyp

• Nasal polypls occur when tissue becomes inflamed in the nasal mucosa or lining and form a sac-like growth.  Polyps usally begin to occur by the ethmoid sinus and tend to grow in an open area.  These polyps can eventually block the entire sinus or airway.  Some of the common causes of these polyps are an aspirin sensitivity resulting in wheezing, asthma, chronic sinus infections, cycstic fibrosis, or hay fever (allergic rhinitis).  The symptoms that tend to accompany polyps are a cold that will not go away, breathing only through the mouth, a nasal blockage, reduced or inability to smell, or runny nose.  To diagnose polyps a CT is the gold standard, the polyps will show us as an opaque area on the scan.  Treatment options are nasal steriod sprays but if discontinue use the symptoms will re occur, corticosteriod pills or liquid, antibiotics only if accompanied by a bacterial infection.  In severe options individuals may need a surgical procedure called functional endoscopic sinus surgery. If surgery is indicated removal of the polyps will make it easier to breathe but the polyps will often return.