Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are small, noncancerous growths that occur in the lining of the nose and sinuses. They develop because of chronic inflammation and can cause various symptoms in the respiratory and sinus passageways. Because nasal polyps obstruct breathing passages, they tend to lead to other conditions, such as loss of sense of smell, sinus infections, snoring and even sleep apnea.
Symptoms
200,000 new cases of nasal polyps are reported every year. Still, someone with nasal polyps may be unaware they have the condition unless diagnosed early or until they experience some of the following symptoms:
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal blockage
- Snoring
- Poor sense of smell
- Frequent or chronic sinus infections
- Runny nose
- Sinus headaches
- Coughing
- Post-nasal drip
If you suspect that you may have nasal polyps, your allergist will perform a physical exam to evaluate the nasal passages and determine the presence of any polyps. To confirm this diagnosis, your doctor may also recommend an endoscopic exam of the nasal passages or a CT imaging scan to identify polyps or other structural issues of the nose and sinuses. As polyps may be due to underlying allergies, allergy tests may also be recommended to identify allergic triggers.
Find an Allergy Partners Location near you to begin your allergy care journey. We are committed to helping you live a symptom-free life.
Four Steps to Relief
Planning Your First Visit
Schedule an appointment at your local office and fill out our pre-registration and medical history forms to help minimize any wait time when you arrive.
Your First Visit
Your initial visit will consist of a consultation, review of your medical history and a comprehensive exam to build a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Diagnostics and Testing
We may complete one or more tests to better understand the cause of your symptoms. Common tests include skin testing, pulmonary testing, and blood testing.
Treatment
Following the evaluation and testing, we’ll provide a comprehensive diagnosis and implement a personalized treatment plan that will deliver relief.
Treatment
Treatment of nasal polyps typically requires several strategies, and your allergist will work with you to customize an approach. A key strategy is avoiding allergic triggers, such as dust mites, pollens, and pet dander. Medications, particularly intranasal steroids, can also help shrink polyps. In severe cases, a short course of oral steroids may be needed. Longer term relief may come in the form of allergen immunotherapy or newer biologic agents. In managing polyps, your allergist may partner with a local ENT surgeon should surgery be needed.
The Allergy Partners Difference
At Allergy Partners, our team is dedicated to helping you identify the underlying cause of your nasal polyps, manage, and reduce your symptoms, and help you enjoy an improved quality of life.
Find an Allergy Partners Location near you to begin your allergy care journey. We are committed to helping you live a symptom-free life.
