Nasal Polyps – Overview, Diagnosis & Treatment | Auricle ENT Clinic

What are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are fleshy, painless non-cancerous fat growths that develop on nose lining & paranasal sinuses.
Usually, nasal polyps grow in the swollen tissue of the nasal mucosa. The mucosa is a wet layer which aids in protecting the nose & sinuses.

When an infection occurs, nasal mucosa tends to swell & secrete a fluid that drips out. If the infection or irritation continues for a prolonged time, the mucosa may start forming a polyp.

How is Nasal Polyps Diagnosed?

General checkup – Nasal polyps are generally clearly noticeable during a regular nose checkup by a ENT doctor. Doctors use the illuminated instrument, otoscope to examine nasal polyps.

Endoscopy – Some nasal polyps may not be visible as they may develop deep into the sinuses. Endoscopy is performed to diagnose deeper nasal polyps, in which small, flexible tube along with light & camera attached to its end is slid inside the nasal passage.

Imaging test – To conclude the precise size and position of a nasal polyp, a CT scan or MRI is essential.

Blood test – Doctors may also suggest undergoing a blood test to examine the level of vitamin D. Low level of vitamin D is linked to nasal poly development.

How is Nasal Polyp Treated?

Nasal Polyp is developed due to inflammation; if inflammation is controlled, then possibly the nasal polyps may shrink in size & eventually disappear. Doctors prescribe medications to reduce inflammation. If drugs treatment doesn’t work, the patient is suggested to undergo surgery.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) for Nasal Polyps Removal

• When medicinal drugs fail to combat the polys and eliminate them. Doctors suggest patients, to undergo endoscopic sinus surgery for removal of nasal polyps.
• In endoscopic sinus surgery, surgeons insert a tiny tube with a camera or lighted magnifying lens attached at the end, into the nostril.
• They further lead the tube into the sinus cavities. The camera or magnifying lens assist the doctor in getting a clear image of nasal polyps.
• Once the nasal polyps exact location is determined, surgeons further use small instruments to discard polyps & also other elements that obstruct the outflow of fluid from sinuses.
• Patients are asked to use Corticosteroid nasal spray to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps further.