Nasal Polyps Treatment in Charlotte
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Nasal polyps are growths that develop in the thin, soft tissue (mucosa) lining the nasal passages and sinuses. These growths can appear on either or both sides of the nose and often form in clusters. Some nasal polyps are small, sometimes even microscopic, but they can grow to be as big as a grape.
Unlike polyps in other parts of the body, such as the intestines or bladder, nasal polyps aren’t usually cancerous. However, their presence can obstruct airflow, causing uncomfortable symptoms like wheezing and facial pressure. They can also obstruct sinus drainage, causing chronic sinus infections.
Though the exact cause of nasal polyps is unknown, they are often associated with chronic inflammation, which can be triggered by conditions like allergies and asthma. Age, gender, and certain medications can also put you at risk.
There are two types of nasal polyps:
These polyps originate from the ethmoid sinuses, which are located between the eyes and behind the bridge of the nose. Ethmoidal polyps tend to grow in clusters and can extend into the nasal cavity, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion and reduced sense of smell.
These polyps originate from the maxillary sinuses, which are located in the cheekbones. Antrochoanal polyps typically grow as single polyps and can extend from the sinuses through the nasal passage into the back of the nose. They may cause similar symptoms as ethmoidal polyps, including nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing.
The symptoms of nasal polyps vary depending on the size and location of the growths. However, most patients experience:
- Stuffy nose
- Postnasal drip
- Sneezing
- Reduced sense of smell
- Wheezing
- Facial pressure and pain
- Snoring
- Frequent sinus infections
Nasal polyps can also exacerbate asthma symptoms, making it difficult to manage the condition. Because of this, patients may experience increased frequency and severity of asthma attacks and a greater need for asthma medications.
Additionally, nasal polyps can contribute to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a sleep disorder characterized by repetitive episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway. If left untreated, OSA can lead to complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and daytime fatigue.
Because of overlapping symptoms, nasal polyps are often mistaken for allergies or the common cold. However, unlike allergies, nasal polyps do not respond to antihistamines or allergy medications. Symptoms also don’t resolve after 7 to 10 days, as with viral infections.
Other key differences are listed below.
| Allergies vs. Common Cold vs. Nasal Polyps | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Allergies |
Common Cold |
Nasal Polyps |
|
Cause |
Immune response to allergens (e.g., pollen, dust, pet dander) |
Viral infection |
Chronic inflammation in nasal passages |
|
Symptoms |
Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy/watery eyes |
Nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing, mild fever |
Persistent nasal congestion, postnasal drip, reduced sense of smell, facial pain/pressure |
|
Duration |
Symptoms persist as long as allergen exposure continues |
Symptoms typically resolve within 7-10 days |
Symptoms persist longer than 10 days, may be chronic |
|
Treatment |
Antihistamines, nasal sprays, allergen avoidance |
Rest, fluids, over-the-counter cold medications |
Corticosteroid nasal sprays, oral steroids, surgical removal |
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), about 13 million people in the United States have nasal polyps1. The exact cause of these growths isn’t fully understood. However, experts have discovered certain risk factors that may increase your chances of developing nasal polyps.
Conditions such as allergies and asthma can lead to persistent inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses, increasing the likelihood of nasal polyps.
According to AAFA, certain infections — particularly staph infections — can make patients more likely to develop nasal polyps1.
In individuals with cystic fibrosis, a gene causes the body to produce unusually thick mucus that can block the airways and lead to chronic inflammation, which is a common precursor to nasal polyp formation.
Nasal trauma, from falls, accidents, or repeated blows, can cause persistent inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can put you at risk for nasal polyp development.
Individuals with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), also known as Samter’s Triad, experience asthma, sensitivity to aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and sinus disease with recurrent nasal polyps.
Nasal polyps are more common in adults, particularly those between the ages of 40 and 601.
For reasons not fully understood, men are 1.5 times more likely to develop nasal polyps than women2.
Exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke or occupational dust (e.g., from woodworking or farming) may increase the risk of nasal polyps. Long-term exposure to household allergens, such as dust mites or pet dander, can also increase an individual’s risk.
Receiving a nasal polyps diagnosis is the first step towards finding relief from your symptoms. At Carolina Asthma and Allergy Center, our team typically follows a five-step diagnosis process when working with a patient with suspected nasal polyps.
- Medical History: Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, their duration, and any preexisting conditions that may be contributing to your discomfort.
- Physical Examination: If nasal polyps are suspected, a medical professional will conduct a nasal endoscopy. This involves using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) to examine the nasal passages and sinuses.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a small tissue sample (biopsy) of nasal polyps may be taken during the endoscopy to rule out other conditions.
- Imaging Studies: Depending on the results of the endoscopy, we may order CT scans to get a better look at your sinuses. This helps assess the size and extent of nasal polyps and identify any structural abnormalities contributing to symptoms.
- Allergy and Asthma Testing: Since allergies and asthma can contribute to nasal inflammation, we may also recommend that you be tested for these conditions.
At Carolina Asthma and Allergy Center, we offer a range of nasal polyps treatments in Charlotte. After conducting a thorough examination, our medical team will work with you to create a treatment plan that reduces symptoms and improves quality of life.
Corticosteroids are a type of medication with anti-inflammatory properties. Many doctors prescribe nasal corticosteroids, which are sprayed directly into the nasal passages, to help reduce swelling and shrink the polyps.
Common nasal corticosteroids include:
- Fluticasone (brand example: FLONASE)
- Budesonide (brand example: RHINOCORT®)
- Mometasone (brand example: Nasonex)
- Triamcinolone (brand example: Nasacort®)
- Beclomethasone (brand example: BECONASE AQ®)
- Ciclesonide (brand example: OMNARIS®)
Unfortunately, nasal corticosteroids can’t always reach nasal polyps deep in the sinuses. In these cases, a short-term oral corticosteroid may be prescribed, either alone or in conjunction with the nasal medication. If this sinus treatment isn’t effective, our Charlotte team may recommend injectable corticosteroids.
It’s also important to note that corticosteroids can cause side effects like weight gain, mood changes, high blood sugar levels, and increased risk of infection. Our specialists will discuss these side effects and help you weigh the risks.
Biologics block immune system proteins responsible for triggering inflammation in the airways. These medications are typically administered via injection or infusion, allowing them to directly modulate immune responses and inflammatory pathways.
Unlike corticosteroids, which tend to affect the entire immune system, biologics are more targeted. This helps minimize the systemic side effects often experienced with corticosteroids.
When nasal polyps don’t respond to medications or are causing significant obstruction, doctors may recommend nasal polyp removal surgery (nasal polypectomy). During this outpatient procedure, an endoscope is inserted into the nostrils. Surgical instruments are then used to carefully remove the polyps.
Post-surgery, patients may experience temporary discomfort, congestion, or minor bleeding. However, symptoms typically improve as healing progresses.
Beyond medications and treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider, you can manage nasal polyps by:
- Rinsing your nasal passages with saline. This is a safe and inexpensive way of moisturizing nasal passages, flushing out mucus and allergens, and reducing inflammation.
- Using a humidifier in your bedroom. Moist air can help keep nasal passages hydrated and reduce irritation.
- Avoiding triggers that worsen nasal inflammation, such as tobacco smoke, strong odors, and airborne allergens like pollen or dust mites.
- Practicing breathing exercises designed to improve nasal airflow and reduce congestion. Bhramari pranayama, a research-backed yoga practice, helps ventilate the sinuses and reduce inflammation.
- Keeping your head elevated while sleeping. Using an extra pillow or raising the head of your bed can reduce nasal congestion and promote better drainage.
- Maintaining good hygiene. To minimize the risk of infections that can exacerbate nasal polyps, regularly wash your hands and avoid touching your face.
- Treating underlying conditions. No matter the specific sinus treatment plan your Charlotte medical team chooses, it’s important to address asthma, allergies, or any underlying conditions that may contribute to nasal polyps recurrence.
Get Relief Today: Receive Nasal Polyps Treatment in Charlotte
If you’re tired of nasal congestion, headaches, and other bothersome symptoms affecting your quality of life, Carolina Asthma and Allergy Center can help. From a nasal polyps diagnosis to comprehensive sinus treatment, we can provide everything you need to breathe easy again. Call our office at 704-372-7900 or complete the online appointment request form to get started today.
Do you need surgery to treat nasal polyps?
Surgery is not always necessary for nasal polyps. Many cases can be managed effectively with medications such as nasal corticosteroids. However, if nasal polyps are large, cause significant obstruction, or do not respond to medications, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Are nasal polyps dangerous?
Nasal polyps are typically benign (non-cancerous). However, they can cause significant discomfort and affect your quality of life. In some cases, severe nasal polyps can also contribute to complications such as obstructive sleep apnea or worsening asthma symptoms.
Why do you get nasal polyps?
Though the exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, they are thought to develop as a result of chronic inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses.
How do you know if you have nasal polyps?
The only way to know for certain if you have nasal polyps is to receive a nasal polyps diagnosis from a healthcare professional. If you experience persistent symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pressure or pain, recurrent headaches, snoring, or frequent sinus infections, it's essential to seek medical evaluation.
