Overview
Nasal polyps are sac-like growths of inflamed tissue lining the nose (nasal mucosa) or sinuses.
See also: Sinusitis
Symptoms
People with nasal polyps often complain about having a cold that has lasted for months or years.
Symptoms include:
Mouth breathing
Nose feeling blocked (nasal obstruction)
Reduced or complete loss of sense of smell (not common with sinus infection)
Runny nose
Headaches or pain are NOT common unless there is also a sinus infection.
Treatment
Medications help relieve symptoms but rarely get rid of nasal polyps.
Nasal steroid sprays may help with nasal blockage or runny nose, but symptoms return if treatment is stopped. There are many brands available. They are safe for adults and children.
Corticosteroid pills or liquid may also improve symptoms.
Antibiotics should only be taken if there is a bacterial sinus infection.
Some people may need surgery, such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
Causes
Nasal polyps typically start near the ethmoid sinuses (located at the top of the inside of the nose) and grow into the open areas. Large polyps can block the sinuses or nasal airway.
People with the following conditions are more likely to also have nasal polyps:
Aspirin sensitivity (wheezing)
Asthma
Chronic sinus infections
Cystic fibrosis
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
Tests & diagnosis
Examining the nose shows a grayish grape-like mass in the nasal cavity.
A CT scan of the sinuses will show opaque (cloudy) spots where the polyps are.
Prognosis
Removing the polyps with surgery usually makes it easier to breathe through the nose. Over time, however, nasal polyps often return. Reduced or lost sense of smell does not always improve following treatment with medicines or surgery.
Prevention
Although there is no real way to prevent nasal polyps, therapy aimed at the cause can help. Nasal sprays, antihistamines, and allergy shots may help prevent polyps that block the airway.
Also, aggressive medical treatment of sinus infections is helpful.
Complications
Bleeding
Infection
Nasal polyps may come back.
When to contact a doctor
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you regularly have difficulty breathing through your nose.
eastbaygordo Reviewed by eastbaygordo on . Weed and Sinus Infections, correlation? A few weeks ago I was having horrible tooth pain and constant headaches (they were more painful and prominent when I would smoke weed)--went to the dentist and only had one cavity. The tooth pain and head aches were actually caused by a sinus infection and the Dentist gave me some antibiotics--headaches went away. I'm getting the same toothache & slight headache combo again now just a lot less frequent and a more dulled pain and I think it happens more when I'm burning. Does anyone know if Rating: 5