Nasal polyps are estimated to affect about 1-4% of the general population, with higher prevalence rates seen among those with chronic respiratory conditions. For instance, around 30% of individuals with chronic sinusitis have nasal polyps. This condition frequently coexists with other inflammatory diseases, such as asthma. Understanding nasal polyps is essential for effective management and treatment.
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They can vary in size and may occur individually or in clusters. While they are usually painless, they can lead to various symptoms and complications. The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they are associated with chronic inflammation in the nasal passages. Several conditions can contribute to this inflammation, including:
Nasal polyps can cause a range of symptoms, including:
In some cases, larger polyps can cause significant blockages in the nasal passages, leading to breathing difficulties.
Diagnosing nasal polyps typically involves a medical history review and a physical examination. Healthcare providers may use a nasal endoscope, a thin tube with a camera, to visualize the nasal passages and identify the presence of polyps. In some cases, imaging studies like CT scans may be ordered to assess the extent of the condition and rule out other issues.
Treatment for nasal polyps aims to reduce their size and alleviate symptoms. Options include:
If medications do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered. Endoscopic sinus surgery can remove larger polyps and improve drainage in the sinuses.
Addressing underlying issues like allergies or asthma is crucial in preventing recurrence.
While it may not be possible to prevent nasal polyps entirely, managing contributing factors can help reduce their likelihood:
Consult an ear, nose and throat professional if you experience persistent nasal congestion, facial pain, loss of smell, or any other concerning symptoms for an evaluation and appropriate management.
If you have been dealing with nasal polyps lately, it might be time to book an appointment with a sinus specialist like Dr. Thomas S. Higgins, MD, MSPH to make sure that you get the proper treatment. Dr. Higgins is a fellowship-trained sinus surgeon and rhinologist who runs the premier sinus clinic in Louisville, Kentucky. You can call him at 502-894-8441 or contact him online!
Thomas S. Higgins, MD, MSPH
Father. Husband. Sinusitis Nerd.
Contact Us
Have question about our services and treatments? Reach out to us!
Thank you for contacting us.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Schedule an Appointment with a Fellow-Trained Sinus Surgeon Today
Dr. Thomas Higgins | Dedication to Sinusitis Relief
Our Convenient Locations
Louisville Old Brownsboro Crossing
9850 Von Allmen Court, STE 104, Louisville, KY 40241
Louisville St. Matthews Springs Medical Complex
6420 Dutchmans Parkway STE 380 Louisville, KY 40205
Jeffersonville, Indiana
W Gordon Gutmann Blvd, Jeffersonville, IN 47130 USA
Dr. Thomas S. Higgins
Copyright © 2012-2024. Higgins Sinus. All Rights Reserved.
Note: The information contained in these pages is for educational purposes only. It should not be construed as individualized diagnostic and treatment advice. Please see our Privacy Policy as well as our Terms and Conditions. While we will never intentionally share any information you provide us via this website, this contact form and email system is not secure under HIPAA guidelines. Please avoid including personal or medical information you would want to be protected from 3rd party interception. A list of HIPAA identifiers can be found here. Please do not use this form for emergent or urgent matters. Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you use one of our coupons/links to make a purchase.