Nasal Polyps
Evaluation and management of nasal polyps, including advanced treatment options.
Overview
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They are often associated with chronic inflammation and can significantly impact quality of life.
symptoms
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Reduced or complete loss of smell (anosmia)
- Reduced sense of taste
- Facial pressure or pain
- Snoring
- Post-nasal drip
causes
- Chronic inflammation (allergic or non-allergic)
- Asthma (especially in adults)
- Aspirin sensitivity
- Cystic fibrosis
- Chronic sinusitis
evaluation
- Nasal endoscopy to visualize polyps
- CT scan of sinuses to assess extent
- Allergy testing
- Assessment of asthma and aspirin sensitivity
- Smell testing
treatment
medical
- Nasal corticosteroids (sprays and irrigations)
- Oral corticosteroids (short courses for severe cases)
- Treatment of underlying allergies
- Aspirin desensitization (if applicable)
advanced
- Biologic medications (dupilumab, omalizumab) for severe cases
- Surgical removal (polypectomy or functional endoscopic sinus surgery)
- Post-surgical maintenance therapy
asthma Link
There's a strong association between nasal polyps and asthma, particularly in adults. This is known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) when aspirin sensitivity is also present.
referral
Refer to ENT specialist for evaluation, especially if polyps are large, causing significant symptoms, or not responding to medical therapy. Consider referral for biologic therapy evaluation in severe cases.
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