What is vasal polyps? 10 things to know about mucosal overgrowth in the nose
Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths in the nasal or sinus lining, often linked to chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, allergies, and aspirin intolerance. They cause nasal obstruction, loss of smell, and headaches. Diagnosis is clinical, and treatment ranges from antihistamines to surgical removal through functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
Definition and Presentation Masses of swollen nasal or sinus mucosa form nasal polyps. They may arise because of a variety of causes and can be present either on only one side (unilateral) or on both sides (bilateral) of the nose. They can be sessile (attached directly to the surface) or pedunculated (attached through a stalk). (Image: Canva)
2/10
Association with Rhinosinusitis and Asthma People who have had long-term rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the air-filled cavities) are likely to develop nasal polyps as well. Alongside, about seven percent of people with bronchial asthma (either atopic or non-atopic type) also have an increased risk of nasal polyps.(Image: Canva)
3/10
Aspirin Intolerance and Cystic Fibrosis Some individuals may have an intolerance to a drug called aspirin. Around thirty-six percent of people with aspirin intolerance can show nasal polyps, along with asthma (called the Samter’s triad). Those who have cystic fibrosis are also more susceptible to developing nasal polyps.(Image: Canva)
4/10
Inflammation, Infections, and Structural Factors Any inflammation of the nose, caused either due to virus and bacteria, or an allergy, can also lead to nasal polyps. A deviated nasal septum or pus collection in the space between the nasal septum (septal abscess) can be predisposing factors to nasal polyps.(Image: Canva)
Nasal Furuncle and Vestibulitis A nasal furuncle refers to a painful infection of the hair follicle in the area just inside the nostrils (known as the nasal vestibule). Also called a nasal boil, it can lead to the formation of nasal polyp on one side of the nose. Inflammation of the vestibule is also a cause of this condition.(Image: Canva)
6/10
Foreign Bodies and Genetic Syndromes The presence of any foreign body in the nose can predispose to nasal polyp as well. Certain syndromes like Kartagener syndrome, Young syndrome, and Churg-Strauss syndrome can also lead to nasal polypi. Presence of malignancies, squamous cell carcinoma, and large benign tumours are also implicated.(Image: Canva)
7/10
Common in Adults, Causes Obstruction The presence of multiple polypi can be seen at any age, but is more commonly observed in adults. Due to nasal polypi, the nose may feel stuffy, which can result in total nasal obstruction. Anosmia, or loss of sense of smell, can also be a presenting feature in this condition.(Image: Canva)
8/10
Headache and Allergy Symptoms If associated sinusitis is also detected, it can be the cause for headaches, frequently experienced by the affected individual. The person may also complain of sneezing and watery discharge, if they have a pre-existing allergy that could have led to nasal polyp.(Image: Canva)
Clinical Examination and Appearance Depending on the size and the position of the nasal polyp, it may protrude as a mass from the nostril. On observation by a healthcare provider through a procedure called anterior rhinoscopy, pale, glistening, grape-like masses may be seen, which do not bleed on touch.(Image: Canva)
10/10
Treatment Options and Surgery If the polypoidal changes are seen early, they may revert to normal by using only anti-histamines and controlling the underlying allergy. A surgery known as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) may be carried out to relieve the symptoms and remove the polyp.(Image: Canva)
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
