Nasal polyps are small, tear-shaped growths in the sinuses or nasal passages. Although they are not malignant, they can be quite uncomfortable and make breathing through your nose difficult or even impossible. It usually develops alongside conditions like chronic sinusitis and asthma, although it is unclear why some patients get it and not others. While nasal polyps signs can occur in anyone, young and middle-aged individuals are the most frequently affected.

Signs and symptoms
At first, you could mistake the symptoms of nasal polyps for a cold. This is due to the fact that a runny or plugged nose is a typical sign of viral illnesses such as colds. Commonly, colds last for 2 to 14 days, and their symptoms go away on their own. The symptoms of nasal polyps won’t go away on their own if you don’t seek treatment.

Chronic congestion, a “swollen nose,” and nasal blockages are common complaints by people with nasal polyps. Usually, the size and position of the polyp determine how severe the congestion and discomfort are.

Runny nose and postnasal dripping are also among the common nasal polyps signs, and some people might experience a persistent cold.

As a result of sinus inflammation and obstructions, some patients may also have a decreased or total loss of their sense of taste and smell. In more severe situations, patients may also develop obstructive sleep apnea, face pain, migraines, nosebleeds, and headaches.

Cancerous nasal polyps
It’s unusual to have nasal polyps signs in just one nostril or unilaterally. Sometimes these polyps could be an indication of cancer. You should consult an ENT surgeon to rule this out. Another potentially concerning symptom is a bloody discharge from one nostril. It can be brought on by an infection, nose picking, or improper nasal spray usage – all of which are often not harmful. However, you should contact your doctor if you have a bloody discharge coming from one side of your nose since, in some rare circumstances, this could be an indicator of a malignant tumor.

Causes
The cause of nasal polyps is mostly unknown. It is believed that persistent or chronic nasal irritation results in edema, or swelling, of the lining of your nostril or nasal cavity. This swelling hangs down due to gravity, creating the polyp. Typically affecting both nostrils, nasal polyps can gradually expand and obstruct your nasal cavity.

Sinuses can also support the growth of nasal polyps. The air-filled cavities in your skull, known as your sinuses, discharge into the nose. The maxillary sinuses are the largest sinuses. You can find them behind your cheeks, under your eyes. Because the lining of your sinuses and nose are the same, nasal polyps can also develop in your sinuses.

Treatment options
Before pursuing surgery, those with nasal polyps signs should first try other forms of treatment. The purpose of the treatment is to reduce the polyps and alleviate additional symptoms, such as breathing difficulties.

At-home treatment
Before opting for prescription options, patients with mild to severe nasal polyps signs may find relief at home by utilizing natural remedies.

Nasal irrigation and cleaning
Many patients discover that using a nasal nebulizer to clean and irrigate their nasal passages is an efficient technique to relieve sinus congestion and obstructions naturally. Utilizing the device to apply a nasal-safe moisturizer can also help relieve inflammation and discomfort.

Steam
Inhaling steam is another all-natural remedy for nasal polyps. Using a personal steamer, taking a hot bath or shower, or visiting a steam room could help reduce swelling and clear congestion.

Prescription options
Prescription treatments aid in symptom relief and can reduce or possibly get rid of nasal polyps. The following may be recommended by your doctor:

Nasal sprays can help to decrease or get rid of polyps, clear up runny noses, and open the nasal passageways.
Polyps are reduced in size and edema and congestion are decreased by oral or intravenous options.
Antihistamines, a type of allergy treatment, stops the development of new polyps and ease allergy symptoms.
Sinusitis brought on by bacterial infections is treated with antibiotics.

Surgery
If the polyps are large or if steroids or nose drops have failed, an operation may be the best option.

Polypectomy
In a polypectomy, polyps are removed using a surgical tool. The number and size of the polyps, their location, and your level of readiness for an operation may all influence the type of anesthesia used.

Endoscopic sinus surgery
When the polyps are severely obstructing your sinuses or are huge and numerous, it may be necessary to remove them via endoscopic sinus surgery. The endoscope provides a clear view of the sinuses and enables the surgeon to perform the procedure in a location that is challenging to access with standard surgical tools.

It is recommended to consult a doctor at the first sign of a runny or blocked nose, especially if nasal polyps are suspected. If the situation persists even after a while, you may be referred to a specialist for adequate care.