5 Common Signs of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps might not seem like a concerning issue at first. However, even smaller polyps, if left untreated, can quickly grow and cause significant health issues and diminished comfort. How can you tell if you have nasal polyps? Let's look at some common causes of nasal polyps and when to see a doctor. If any of these symptoms begin to impact your quality of life, talk to your doctor and ask about treatment options.
1. Loss of Taste or Smell
While it might not seem like your nose can impact your sense of taste, research shows that nasal polyps can lead to both loss of smell and loss of taste. The olfactory nerve, which is responsible for your sense of smell, can become damaged or blocked due to nasal polyps. This can make it challenging to enjoy food and detect scents in the environment.
Loss of smell or taste could lead to weight loss, as food may not seem appetizing anymore. If you notice a sudden change in your taste or smell along with polyps, visit your doctor to rule out other underlying causes.
2. Difficulty Breathing Through Your Nose
One of the most common signs of nasal polyps is difficulty breathing through your nose. As these growths block the nasal passages, you may experience a persistent stuffy feeling that won't go away even with decongestants or allergy medication.
You may also find yourself constantly having to breathe through your mouth, which can lead to dry mouth and throat irritation. In addition, research shows that blocked nasal pathways can negatively impact sleep and lead to chronic fatigue. How can you tell if you have nasal polyps that are leading to fatigue? If you find yourself having difficulty sleeping, breathing even with your mouth open or feeling constantly tired even after a good night's rest, it's essential to get checked for nasal polyps.
3. Chronic Sinus Infections
Nasal polyps can also lead to chronic sinus infections, known as chronic rhinosinusitis, that can last for 12 weeks or more. If you already have chronic rhinosinusitis, you might be one of the 25-30% of people that have nasal polyps due to this chronic sinus infection.
Chronic rhinosinusitis can be incredibly frustrating and interfere with daily activities. Chronic sinus infections can lead to increased nasal drainage and nasal obstruction, making it essential to get help from a medical professional or ENT. Your provider or specialist can rule out other causes of chronic sinusitis and determine if nasal polyps are the root of your problem.
4. Facial Pain
Another frustrating symptom of nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis is facial pain and pressure. While the polyps themselves are usually painless to the touch, their size and location in the sinuses can lead to build up of pressure or facial pain. Studies have also shown that pain could be due to a buildup of mucus caused by nasal polyps.
If you experience chronic facial pain, make sure to mention this to your healthcare provider or ENT specialist during your appointment. They can better assess if your facial pain is due to sinus issues, mucus buildup, nasal polyps or something else.
5. Excess Post Nasal Drip
Postnasal drip is a common symptom of nasal polyps and chronic sinus infections. When nasal polyps are present, they can interfere with the normal flow of mucus, leading to excess post nasal drip. This can cause throat irritation, coughing and difficulty swallowing.
More serious side effects of postnasal drip can also include nausea due to mucus in the stomach, hoarseness and even bad breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention from a professional or ENT specialist. They can help determine if nasal polyps are the cause and provide treatment options to alleviate post nasal drip.
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
While there is no certain known cause of nasal polyps, there are a few factors that can increase your risk of developing them. These include:
- Chronic inflammation in the sinuses. This can be due to allergies, recurring sinus infections or immune system disorders.
- Asthma. People with asthma have a higher chance of developing nasal polyps due to chronic inflammation and mucus production.
- Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD). Similar to asthma, people with AERD have an increased risk of developing nasal polyps due to chronic inflammation in the airways.
- Cystic fibrosis. This genetic condition can cause thick mucus to build up in the sinuses and increase the likelihood of developing nasal polyps. This is more concerning if nasal polyps are seen in children.
- Genetics. Some research suggests that genetics may play a role in developing nasal polyps. If someone in your family has had nasal polyps, you could also be at risk due to the same genetics present for immune response.
Getting Treatment for Nasal Polyps
There are several treatment options available, depending on the severity and cause of your nasal polyps. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are a first line of defense and can help reduce inflammation and shrink nasal polyps.
For larger or persistent nasal polyps, surgery may be recommended. This is typically done by an ENT specialist using endoscopic techniques to remove the polyps and improve breathing. If allergies are contributing to chronic inflammation in the sinuses, allergy shots or other forms of immunotherapy can also help. Cystic fibrosis patients might benefit from specialized treatment to help manage their condition.
How can you tell if you have nasal polyps, or something else? If you suspect you have nasal polyps, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and develop a treatment plan. The sooner you address nasal polyps, the easier they are to manage and prevent them from recurring and negatively impacting your overall well-being.