What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps, although benign and soft in nature, are more than just small growths within the nasal and paranasal sinus mucosa. These non-cancerous structures, often compared in shape to drops of water or small grapes, can have a significant impact on daily functioning and overall well-being.
The unique structure of polyps, characterized by a high degree of hydration, makes them soft and flexible, but at the same time they can stretch and occupy a significant space in the nose and sinuses. In some cases, polyps can reach a size large enough to become visible to the patient or doctor during a routine examination.
Causes of nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are more common in men and usually develop after the age of 20. Inflammation in the nasal cavities or sinuses, often associated with a chronic bacterial or fungal infection, contributes to their formation. There are two main types of polyps: neutrophilic, associated with infection, and eosinophilic, resulting from an allergic reaction. Polyps can co-occur with other diseases, such as bronchial asthma, chronic sinusitis, cystic fibrosis, or immobile cilia syndrome.
An interesting aspect of nasal polyps is their ability to form in response to a variety of inflammatory conditions and allergies. In some cases, they can be a warning sign indicating other, more complex health problems, such as asthma, allergies or even cystic fibrosis. Therefore, the presence of nasal polyps often requires a comprehensive medical evaluation to identify and treat potential underlying causes.
Factors conducive to the development of nasal polyps include poor vascularization of rhesus cells, abnormal anatomical structure of these cells, immobile cilia in the nasal cavity, and stasis of viscous mucus. There is also speculation that nasal polyps may have a genetic basis, especially in people with hypersensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Symptoms of nasal polyps
The symptoms of nasal polyps can be varied and depend on their size. Small polyps often do not cause obvious discomfort, while larger polyps can cause impaired nasal patency, loss of smell, taste disturbances, nasal leakage, a feeling of pressure, as well as breathing problems and snoring. Polyps can also cause recurrent upper respiratory infections and chronic headaches.
The painlessness of nasal polyps does not negate the fact that they can be a source of considerable discomfort, especially when their growth leads to airway blockage. Therefore, they can negatively affect the quality of breathing, leading to chronic nasal congestion, which in turn can cause sleep problems such as snoring or even sleep apnea. In addition, they can interfere with the normal flow of air and smell, resulting in a reduction or loss of olfactory and even taste capabilities.
Diagnosis and treatment of nasal polyps
Diagnosis of nasal polyps is a multi-step process that begins with a detailed medical history. The ENT doctor asks about your medical history, symptoms such as breathing problems, loss of smell, frequent sinus infections and any allergies. This is followed by an ENT examination to directly assess the condition of the mucosa, the presence of polyps and other abnormalities.
In cases where the diagnosis is inconclusive or where there is a need for a more thorough evaluation, nasal endoscopy is used. It is an examination during which a thin endoscope is inserted into the nose, allowing detailed imaging of the inside of the nose and partially the sinuses. In addition, doctors may recommend imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans to get a more accurate picture of the condition of the sinuses and the extent of the polyps. This allows precise localization of polyps, assessment of their size and impact on nasal and sinus structures.
Allergy tests are also often used in the diagnosis of nasal polyps to help identify potential allergens that cause or exacerbate inflammation, which can contribute to the development of polyps.
Treatment of nasal polyps (treatment of nasal polyps Warsaw) usually begins with conservative therapy. The first step is often the use of intranasal steroids, which have anti-inflammatory, anti-edema and anti-allergic effects and can reduce the size of polyps and relieve symptoms. If intranasal steroid therapy is unsuccessful, the doctor may recommend short-term use of oral steroids.
In situations where polyps are refractory to conservative treatment or cause significant nasal obstruction, surgical intervention is considered. The most common method is polypectomy with functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FOEZ). It is a minimally invasive technique that can remove polyps and improve drainage and ventilation of the sinuses. The FEOZ procedure is usually well tolerated by patients and allows a quick return to normal activity.
It is worth noting, however, that nasal polyps have a tendency to recur, so it is important to continue treatment and see an ENT specialist regularly, even after treatment has ended.
Summary
Nasal polyps are a problem that requires attention and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to ensuring comfort and avoiding complications. Regular visits to a specialist and attention to nasal and sinus health can help maintain good health.
