What Causes Nasal Polyps?

Woman with a nose pain.Nasal polyps are best described by Dr. Payam Daneshrad of Santa Monica and Torrance, CA, as growths that grow on the lining of the nose. These are often seen as small clusters that protrude from the nasal cavity. Nasal polyps may also be described as pinkish, yellow, or gray in color. Aside from their significantly unpleasant appearance, they can actually cause substantial health problems when left untreated. Although most cases of nasal polyps do not pose any major threat to the person’s overall well-being, these should still be attended to by a specialist for proper diagnosis purposes.

When your sinus passageways are blocked, the mucus accumulates, leading to swelling and irritation of the surrounding tissues. It can cause an inflammation called sinobronchitis. Nasal polyps themselves are growths that are basically benign (not cancerous), but they may grow and spread over time.

How large are nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps vary in size from microscopic to large enough to completely block your nasal passages. They are soft and may take different shapes, such as sessile (flat), papillomatous (with a stalk), or plexiform (many small protrusions).

What causes nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps may be formed when the mucous membranes which line your nose become irritated. This can be caused by:

  • Allergies or asthma that may have gone untreated for an extended period of time.
  • Chronic sinus infections, which are often caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
  • Genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis and collagen vascular disease (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis).
  • In rare cases, nasal polyps may also form due to certain types of cancer treatment (radiation therapy) or tumors in the nose itself.
  • An unusual immune response that results in inflammation around your nasal passages and sinuses, which may trigger the formation of nasal polyps over time.

When your sinus passageways are blocked, mucus accumulates, leading to swelling and irritation of the surrounding tissues. It can cause an inflammation called sinobronchitis. Nasal polyps themselves are growths that are basically benign (not cancerous), but they may grow and spread over time.

Find out if you have nasal polyps

If you suspect that you are dealing with nasal polyps and are interested in getting a proper diagnosis to discuss your treatment options, call Dr. Payam Daneshrad at his Torrance and Santa Monica, CA offices. Call 310-453-6500 to request a visit at either of his locations and learn more about your ENT and facial plastic surgery needs with an experienced provider in the community.

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