Nasal polyps are not just uncomfortable, but can cause sinus infections and even restrict your ability to breathe. Luckily, ear, nose and throat doctors offer several treatments that help relieve your symptoms. Dr. Siva Elangovan, is here to share information about this common condition.
What are nasal polyps?
Polyps are noncancerous growths that appear in the lining of your nose or sinuses. Some polyps are so small that you may never experience any symptoms from them, while others are large enough to block your airways.
Who gets nasal polyps?
Polyps often form if your nasal passages or sinuses are chronically irritated. Irritation can occur if you have chronic sinusitis, asthma, allergies or infections. People who have cystic fibrosis have an increased risk of developing polyps because the disease triggers the production of thick mucus. Some people may also develop polyps if they have an aspirin sensitivity.
What are the symptoms of polyps?
If you have polyps, you may notice a variety of symptoms, including;
- Postnasal drip or a runny nose
- A headache or pain in your face
- Pressure in your forehead and face
- A constant stuffy feeling
- Snoring
- Decreased sense of smell or taste
- Difficulty breathing (if polyps are large)
How do otolaryngologists treat nasal polyps?
Several medications can help eliminate polyps or reduce their size. Oral, injectable or nasal corticosteroids are used to decrease inflammation and shrink polyps, while antihistamines and antibiotics are effective in treating allergy symptoms and infections that can lead to the formation of polyps.
If medications don't help, your ear, nose and throat doctor may recommend endoscopic surgery to remove the polyps. Through the use of a small camera this procedure is completed entirely through your nostrils without any external incisions. Your doctor uses small instruments in conjunction with state-of-the-art image guidance technology to carefully remove the polyps. Surgery is extremely effective in treating polyps and with continued post-operative medical therapy can make most patient’s symptoms a thing of the past..
Are you worried that you may have nasal polyps? Call Dr. Siva Elangovan at (773) 828-3001 and schedule an appointment today.