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Addressing Nasal Polyps

The Problems With Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are small growths inside the nose that can often be seen with a bright light. You may not notice them yourself, but your ENT doctor can easily see them with the right tools. You may have visited the doctor because of the symptoms they have caused. Polyps, for example, can cause severe nasal obstruction. They can be associated with asthma and allergies as well. Some medications can help control them, but removing them is often the best course of action to provide relief. They can often be removed by local anesthesia procedures.

Causes Of Nasal Polyps

There aren’t any known causes, but it is certain that polyps can be linked to allergies, sinus infections, cystic fibrosis and even asthma. You might have polyps if you have issues with any of those. You will also likely notice nasal congestion that doesn’t go away, reduced sense of taste and smell, snoring, a runny nose, more frequent mouth breathing, and a post-nasal drip.

Removing Nasal Polyps: The Benefits

If you are suffering from certain symptoms that relate to polyps, many of them can be relieved by having the polyps removed. You can relieve nasal congestion, for example, and improve your sense of smell and taste. You will be able to breathe clearly through your nose again and you will reduce the pressure to your forehead and the rest of your face.

What To Expect From Removal Procedures

Depending on how many polyps you have and how large they are, you will either get a local anesthetic or a general anesthetic. The ENT doctor will use a video monitor and a small endoscope to pinpoint the location of each polyp. Delicate instruments called shavers remove the polyps as they are pulled back out of the nose. Discomfort is common after the procedure, but the ENT doctor will prescribe medications to alleviate this. Physical activity for the next few days is limited while you heal. Some ENT doctors will place a small Propel device inside the nose, which is temporary and dissolves on its own. This device releases gentle steroids to help you heal faster.

Do You Need Nasal Polyps Removed?

If you have many of these symptoms and you are wondering if you have polyps that need to be removed, make an appointment with your ENT doctor to find out. Write down your symptoms so you don’t forget anything, even if some of them don’t seem to relate to your nose or sinuses. Your doctor will want all of the details and whether anything makes the symptoms better or worse. Also list any other medical conditions you have and treatments you are receiving, especially for asthma and allergies. You’ll want a list of medications you are taking, both prescription and over-the-counter, so the doctor can get a full picture of everything that is going on related to your polyps or other such issues.

Ask Questions About Nasal Polyps

If you suspect nasal polyps, your doctor will be able to tell if you have them, but you will have a lot of questions about any procedures or treatments. Ask what you can expect from removal or other recommended treatments long term and whether you have any restrictions before or after the procedure. Ask about alternatives so you can make the final decision as to what is best for your symptoms. Once your questions are answered, you can move forward with peace of mind about the procedure.