Medically reviewed by Meghan Maynard Harlan. Last updated on May 18, 2025
General Illness Information
Medical Term:
Nasal Polyps
Common Name:
Description:
Benign fleshy outgrowths of the mucous membrane in the nasal cavities, usually in both sides of the nose.
They sometimes grow large and numerous enough to cause nasal obstruction.
They are more common in adults than in children.
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Causes: Chronic inflammation or allergy in the nose (allergic rhinitis) that causes the nasal mucous membranes to swell and produce excess fluid in the nasal cells.
Prevention: Treat the underlying allergic condition.
Signs & Symptoms
Obstruction of air through the nose (chronic “stuffy-nose” feeling).
Impaired sense of smell.
Feeling of fullness in the face
Nasal discharge (occasionally)
Facial pain (sometimes).
Headaches (sometimes).
Recurrent sinus infections.
Risk Factors
Sinusitis or chronic nasal infection.
Allergic conditions causing nasal symptoms.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnostic tests may include X-rays of the sinuses, CT scans, examination with a nasal speculum, and endoscopy
General Measures:
Medication may reduce the polyps.
Minor surgery is often required to remove polyps. This is usually performed under local anesthetic . However, recurrences are common.
Medications:
Nasal sprays containing cortisone. These are effective in many cases.
Acetaminophen for pain.
Treat underlying allergic condition, if any.
Exercise caution with over the counter nasal sprays.
Activity:
No restriction
Diet:
No restriction.
Possible Complications :
Recurrent infections.
Recurrent nosebleeds.
Prognosis
Excellent. Can be well controlled either with medication or surgery.
Recurrence after surgery is common.
Other
Nothing specified.
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