Nasal polyps can block airflow and cause chronic sinus issues. This article covers their causes, telltale symptoms, and effective treatments—including medication and surgical options—to help you breathe easier.

Nasal polyps are benign, grape‑like growths on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They develop when chronic inflammation triggers overgrowth of the mucous membrane. Although painless, polyps can grow large enough to block normal airflow and drainage, leading to congestion, infection, and a diminished sense of smell.

What Causes Nasal Polyps
Chronic inflammation from allergies, asthma, or frequent sinus infections sets the stage for polyp formation. You’re at higher risk if you have aspirin sensitivity, cystic fibrosis, or immune system disorders. Repeated irritation causes the delicate nasal lining to swell up into polyps over time.

Recognizing the Symptoms
Larger polyps or multiple growths often lead to a feeling of nasal fullness, persistent stuffiness, or runny nose. You may snore more and wake at night feeling congested. Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste, headaches, facial pressure, and post‑nasal drip are common. If polyps completely obstruct the nasal passage, breathing through your nose can become difficult.

Medication-Based Treatments
Topical nasal corticosteroid sprays are first‑line therapy. By reducing inflammation, they often shrink polyps enough to restore airflow. You may use sprays for several weeks before seeing improvement.
Oral corticosteroids can deliver a stronger, short‑term anti‑inflammatory effect. Typically prescribed in tapering doses over one to two weeks, they can quickly reduce polyp size, though side effects limit long‑term use.
Biologic therapies—injectable medications targeting key inflammatory pathways—are an emerging option for patients with large polyps unresponsive to steroids. These treatments can significantly shrink polyps and reduce recurrence rates.

Surgical Management
If medications fail to relieve symptoms, endoscopic sinus surgery can remove polyps and open blocked sinuses. Surgeons use a thin camera (endoscope) to precisely excise polyps and improve sinus drainage without external incisions. Recovery is rapid, and combining surgery with continued topical steroids offers the best long‑term control.

Preventing Recurrence
Polyps often recur, so maintaining sinus health is critical. Daily saline irrigations help clear irritants and reduce inflammation. Consistent use of nasal steroid sprays after surgery lowers the risk of new polyp growth. Managing underlying conditions—like allergies and asthma—through avoidance strategies and appropriate medications is equally important.

When to See a Specialist
If you experience chronic nasal congestion for more than three months or loss of smell, consult an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. They can perform a nasal endoscopy or imaging studies to confirm polyps and develop a personalized treatment plan.