Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are one of the common causes of nasal congestion. Nasal polyps are small, benign, painless growths originating from the nasal cavity and sinuses. They result from chronic inflammatory processes in the nasal and sinus membranes, leading to the accumulation of fluid within these membranes. They are often observed in conditions such as asthma, allergies, cystic fibrosis, or allergic fungal sinusitis.
The sizes of the polyps can vary greatly. In cases where they are very small, they may not cause any additional symptoms, while in larger sizes, they can fill the nasal air passages and cause nasal congestion. Sometimes, they can completely block the airway, even extending from the nasal passages or nostrils to the throat. Large polyps can cause difficulty breathing, a feeling of fullness in the nose, facial pain and pressure, headaches, and loss of smell and taste, as well as nasal discharge.
The use of corticosteroid medications is effective in reducing inflammation and shrinking polyps. However, surgery is often necessary. Additional medication treatments may also be required after surgery. The treatment of polyps has been found to be beneficial in reducing complaints related to asthma and the need for asthma medications in asthmatic patients. Nasal irrigation with saline solutions, such as ocean water or saline, is very helpful in the treatment of polyps.
