Developing nasal polyps can be worrying and negatively impact your quality of life. Here is what to know about how this condition occurs and some of the potential outcomes.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are growths that arise within your nose or sinuses. While they are noncancerous and often small or painless, they are not always completely harmless. Since they can grow in groups in the tight spaces of your airways, they can lead to blockages.
Common Nasal Polyp Symptoms
People with nasal polyps might notice various changes. For instance, you could develop:
- A runny nose, congestion, or postnasal drip (mucus that runs down your throat)
- An inability to smell or taste
- Tooth pain, facial pain, or headaches
- Feelings of pressure affecting your face and forehead
- Snoring or daytime breathing difficulties
- Infections
Not everyone gets the same symptoms. You might experience more than one of these issues. Some people even live without noticing their nasal polyps or simply confuse them with a cold.
Common Causes of Nasal Polyps
Experts are not quite sure why some individuals grow nasal polyps while others never do. However, it is important to know that anyone can experience nasal polyps. That being said, younger and middle-aged adults might be more likely to develop them. Some of the common risk factors include:
- Long-term inflammation: If you have a health issue that causes long-term nasal or sinus inflammation, your odds of growing polyps may be higher.
- Family history: You may be genetically predisposed to developing nasal polyps if you have a family history of the condition.
- Specific conditions: Insufficient vitamin D, dental infections, cystic fibrosis, aspirin sensitivity, and asthma have all been tied to elevated nasal polyp risks.
The existence of these factors means you may be able to lower your chances of growing polyps. For instance, washing your hands can prevent infections that cause airway swelling. Quitting smoking and managing your allergies are smart moves, and some people use humidifiers to reduce irritation.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Talking to Dr. Payam Daneshrad may help you identify an ideal treatment solution if you have nasal polyps. Contact our team at Daneshrad Clinic ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery today by calling 310-453-6500 to schedule a consultation. Board-certified otolaryngologist Dr. Daneshrad will meet with you at our Torrance, CA, or Santa Monica, CA, office to review your symptoms and determine the best treatment plan that will give you the desired relief.