Nasal polyps and recurrent sinusitis

What are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They result from chronic inflammation and can vary in size, sometimes forming large clusters that block nasal airflow. Though benign, nasal polyps can cause significant discomfort by obstructing normal breathing, leading to nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, and recurrent sinus infections.

Nasal polyps are a common condition affecting many Singaporeans due to factors like allergies, chronic sinusitis, and environmental pollutants. Early diagnosis and treatment by an ENT specialist can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

nasal polyps
Nasal Polyps Diagram: Anatomy of the nasal cavity, sinuses, mouth, turbinates and polyps. Medical vector illustration

What Causes Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps develop as a response to chronic inflammation within the nasal and sinus mucosa. Several factors contribute to their formation, including:

  • Chronic sinus infections (sinusitis)
  • Allergic rhinitis and other allergies
  • Asthma
  • Aspirin sensitivity or NSAID intolerance
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Environmental irritants such as pollution and smoke

The persistent inflammation leads to swelling and fluid accumulation, which eventually forms polyps.

Common Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps can sometimes be present without obvious symptoms, but common signs include:

Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness

Runny nose or postnasal drip

Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste

Facial pain or pressure around the sinuses

Snoring or sleep disturbances

Frequent sinus infections

Mouth breathing due to nasal blockage

If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, it is advisable to seek an evaluation from an ENT specialist.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of developing nasal polyps, including:

  • History of chronic sinus infections or sinusitis
  • Allergies and asthma
  • Sensitivity to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Cystic fibrosis (a genetic disorder affecting mucus production)
  • Age (more common in adults aged 20 to 60)
  • Family history of nasal polyps or related conditions

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Diagnosis of Nasal Polyps

ENT specialists in Singapore use several approaches to diagnose nasal polyps:

  • Physical examination: Including nasal endoscopy to directly visualize the polyps inside the nasal passages

  • Imaging studies: CT scans of the sinuses help assess the size, location, and extent of polyps and rule out other causes of nasal blockage

  • Allergy testing: To identify underlying allergic triggers that may contribute to inflammation

  • Additional tests: In some cases, blood tests or biopsy may be performed to exclude other conditions

Treatment of Nasal Polyps

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, shrinking the polyps, and relieving nasal obstruction. Options include:

Medications

  • Nasal corticosteroid sprays: The first-line treatment to reduce inflammation and polyp size

  • Oral corticosteroids: Used for short courses in more severe cases

  • Antihistamines or allergy medications: To control underlying allergic triggers

  • Saline nasal rinses: To help clear mucus and allergens from the nasal passages

Surgical Treatment

When medications are insufficient or polyps are large and obstructive, surgery may be recommended:

  • Endoscopic sinus surgery: A minimally invasive procedure where polyps are removed and sinus drainage pathways are widened to improve airflow and reduce recurrence

     

  • Surgery is typically performed by experienced ENT surgeons and offers symptom relief and improved nasal function

Frequently Asked Questions

Are nasal polyps cancerous?

No, nasal polyps are benign (noncancerous) growths. However, it is important to have them evaluated by an ENT specialist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other serious conditions.

Nasal polyps develop due to chronic inflammation in the nasal and sinus lining. Common causes include allergies, asthma, chronic sinus infections, and environmental irritants.

Small nasal polyps may reduce in size with proper medical treatment, such as corticosteroid nasal sprays. However, untreated polyps often persist or grow larger over time.

Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination with nasal endoscopy and imaging tests like a CT scan to assess the extent of the polyps.

Treatments include nasal corticosteroid sprays, oral steroids for severe cases, allergy management, saline rinses, and surgery if polyps cause significant obstruction or fail to respond to medication.

Yes, endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive and commonly performed procedure with a good safety profile. It helps remove polyps and improves sinus drainage.

Yes, nasal polyps can recur, especially if the underlying inflammation or allergies are not well controlled. Regular follow-up and ongoing medical management can reduce recurrence.

If you experience persistent nasal congestion, loss of smell, facial pressure, or recurrent sinus infections lasting more than 10 days, consult an ENT specialist for evaluation and treatment.

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