What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are benign, teardrop-shaped growths on nasal and sinus tissue. They are often caused by inflammation of the nasal passage and sinuses for prolonged periods of time. Overall decrease in nasal functions are symptoms of nasal polyps, along with snoring, facial pressure, headache, and coughing. While evidence shows different causes of nasal polyps, it is an area that needs more research. Luckily, there are a variety of procedures to successfully remove nasal polyps and many other obstructions in the nasal cavity.
How to manage and remove nasal polyps
The first course of action to treat nasal polyps is typically with a nasal spray, antihistamines, and decongestant medication. At-home remedies such as using a humidifier, rinsing your nasal cavity with saline solution, and avoiding irritants while managing existing allergies will help soothe the situation. If over-the-counter and prescription medications are not helping with pain management or frequency, surgery may be the next step.
If surgical removal of nasal polyps is decided, the doctor will use a device called a nasal endoscope and a video monitor to determine the existence or severity of polyps. A biopsy might be taken in order to further investigate, or the doctor may order a MRI or CT scan to get a full picture of any affected tissue. Surgery is a quick procedure using local or general anesthesia depending on the case. The Breathe Clear Institute uses a nearby facility for surgery.
Recovery is relatively quick and it is suggested to keep any activity light for a week after, while also protecting the nose. Nasal polyps are treatable, but results may vary depending on the individual, and polyps may return again at a later date. Be sure to track any similar symptoms and connect with a doctor if another nasal polyp has grown. This procedure can be done more than once for optimal results, but we will try our best to remedy every situation for the long-term.
Foreign objects in the nasal cavity
Young children are curious by nature and often explore their bodies in ways that sometimes yield harmful results. A common example of this is when a child sticks a foreign object up their nose, typically something small and round like a piece of food or part of a toy. Symptoms include the child having difficulty breathing out of one side of the nose, unusual nasal drip, fussiness that cannot be explained, or a foul odor coming from the face. If any number of these symptoms are present, it’s best to make an appointment rather than try to remove it at home.
In any situation, it is important to keep the nasal cavity clear from organic or foreign objects in order to breathe properly and maintain a healthy lifestyle. We are here to help.
Schedule an appointment with Breathe Clear Institute
If you or a family member are experiencing difficulty breathing through the nose, we recommend making an appointment to see us. Whether there is something trapped in the nasal cavity that is causing an obstruction, or you believe there to be naturally growing polyps, we have solutions to rectify these situations.