- Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths in the nasal passages and sinuses
- “How did I get nasal polyps” This is a frequently asked question from those diagnosed with this medical condition. Unfortunately, there are no clear answers for why some people get nasal polyps, why others do not, and what exactly it is that causes some people to be more susceptible to them than others
- Nasal polyps do most commonly affect young and middle-aged adults
- Nasal polyps are often associated with environmental allergies, chronic sinus infections, asthma, sensitivity to aspirin, and cystic fibrosis
Typical signs and symptoms:
- Nasal congestion or blockage leading to difficulty breathing through the nose
- Mouth breathing
- Postnasal drip
- Runny nose
- Frequent sinus infections
- Facial pain or pressure
- Loss of smell or taste
Treatment options:
- Medications such as nasal and oral steroids can shrink and sometimes eliminate nasal polyps
- Surgery is sometimes required to remove nasal polyps, but the polyps often regrow despite aggressive medical and surgical management
- There are biologic medications approved for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps including dupilumab (Dupixent), omalizumab (Xolair), and mepolizumab (Nucala)
- Patients with aspirin sensitivity may benefit from aspirin desensitization
- Treating any underlying allergies with allergy shots (immunotherapy) is also part of the long-term treatment plan
How we help:
- Perform a detailed medical history and physical exam
- Discuss available treatment options and create an individualized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle
- We offer biologic treatment with Dupixent, Xolair, and Nucala as treatment options for patients whose nasal polyps are inadequately controlled with intranasal corticosteroids
- These treatments have been shown to reduce the need for surgical removal of polyps and oral steroid use
