Overview
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous growths that hang inside the nose and sinuses when the lining stays inflamed for a long time. Small polyps may cause no trouble, but larger ones block the nose, dull the sense of smell and lead to repeated sinus infections. They are treated with steroid sprays or drops, and surgery is offered when medicines do not clear them.
Symptoms
- A constantly blocked or runny nose
- Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste
- Postnasal drip and repeated sinus infections
- A feeling of fullness or pressure over the face
- Snoring or mouth-breathing
When to see a doctor
See an ENT doctor for a nose that stays blocked for weeks, a lost sense of smell, or repeated sinus infections.
Causes
Long-standing inflammation from allergies, asthma, repeated sinus infections or sensitivity to certain painkillers.