Nasal Polyps: What They Are and How to Deal With Them

If you’ve ever had a stuffy nose that just won’t clear, you might be dealing with nasal polyps. These are soft, painless growths that hang out on the lining of your nose or sinuses. They’re not cancer, but they can block airflow and make you feel miserable.

Why Do Nasal Polyps Form?

Most doctors point to chronic inflammation as the main trigger. Anything that keeps your nasal passages irritated—like allergies, asthma, or recurring infections—can lead to polyps. Some people also have a genetic knack for developing them, so if a family member has polyps, you’re more likely to get them too.

Other common culprits are aspirin sensitivity and certain immune disorders. If you notice your symptoms flare up after taking pain relievers, that could be a clue.

Spotting the Symptoms

The classic signs are a runny or blocked nose that doesn’t improve with typical decongestants, a reduced sense of smell, and frequent sinus infections. Some folks feel a feeling of pressure around the eyes or cheeks.

While many people think a stuffy nose is just a cold, persistent congestion for more than a few weeks should raise a red flag. If you’re also dealing with post‑nasal drip or a chronic cough, it’s worth getting checked out.

How do you confirm it’s polyps? An ENT specialist can look inside with a tiny camera or order a CT scan. Those images show the size and exact location, which helps decide the best treatment plan.

Now, onto what you can actually do about them. The first line of defense is usually medication. Nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce swelling and can shrink small polyps. If you have allergies, antihistamines or allergy shots can cut down the inflammation that fuels growth.

When sprays aren’t enough, oral steroids might be prescribed for a short burst. They work fast but aren’t meant for long‑term use because of side effects.

If meds don’t clear the polyps, surgery is the next step. A procedure called a functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) gently removes the polyps and opens up the sinus pathways. It’s done through the nostrils, so there’s no external scar.

After surgery, most patients stay on a steroid spray to keep the polyps from coming back. Lifestyle tweaks also help: keep allergies under control, avoid smoking, and use a humidifier if your home air is dry.

Bottom line: nasal polyps are common, but they’re manageable. Spot the symptoms early, talk to an ENT, and follow a treatment plan that mixes medication, possible surgery, and good nasal hygiene. Your breathing will thank you.