Small saclike growths on the mucous membrane lining the inside of the nostrils. Nasal polyps protrude into the nasal cavity appearing singly or in clusters, and are pearly gray. The polyps originate near the sinuses at the top of the nose and grow into the open areas of the nasal cavity. They are not true polyps because the growth is not new or abnormal tissue, but rather swollen tissue inside the nose. One-sided nasal polyps tend to be nonmalignant, while bilateral (two-sided) polyps may be malignant.
Nasal polyps are growths within the nasal lining, often connected by a small stem. When they become sizable or numerous, they can result in nasal blockage, a persistent runny nose, and a diminished sense of smell.
The precise origin of nasal polyps remains unclear. Nonetheless, they tend to be more prevalent among individuals dealing with asthma or rhinitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the nasal and throat membrane. While nasal polyps are infrequent in children, they can emerge in those youngsters who have the inherited condition known as cystic fibrosis.
Diagnosing nasal polyps involves a physical assessment and occasionally utilizes endoscopy, which involves inspecting and examining the nasal cavity using a viewing instrument. The majority of nasal polyps are benign; nevertheless, a biopsy, entailing the removal of a small tissue sample for microscopic scrutiny, might be conducted to rule out the possibility of malignancy.
Treatment for nasal polyps is generally unnecessary unless they impede breathing, display signs of malignancy, or induce additional symptoms. Minor nasal polyps can often be managed using a corticosteroid nasal spray, which gradually reduces their size within a few weeks. For more sizable or cancerous polyps, removal may entail endoscopic procedures or surgical intervention. It’s worth noting that in some individuals, polyps may reappear following treatment.