Nasal Polyps: Common Concerns and Treatment Options

Nasal cavity inquiry consultation?

Dear Dr.
Cheng,
I previously asked you about feeling a mass in my left nasal cavity.
Last Saturday (11/13), while I was digging in my left nostril, I noticed quite a bit of bleeding, so I went to a local ENT clinic.
The doctor performed an endoscopic examination and stated that the mass is a normal "nasal polyp" (inferior turbinate), which is a normal tissue present in everyone.
However, it may have bled due to my frequent digging, so it is not a nasal polyp or any other growth.
The mass I felt should be the nasal polyp (inferior turbinate).
I have the following questions:
1.
The doctor only told me that it was a normal nasal polyp (inferior turbinate) and advised me not to touch it.
After spraying some medication into my nasal cavity, I was allowed to leave without any prescriptions (oral, topical, or nasal).
I would like to ask you, Dr.
Cheng, is there really no need for any follow-up treatment for my situation (bleeding from the nasal polyp)?
2.
Recently, it has been easier for me to touch the mass in my left nasal cavity, which I couldn't do before, while I have always found it difficult to touch the mass in my right nasal cavity.
I would like to ask you, Dr.
Cheng: (1) Does the nasal polyp (inferior turbinate) naturally grow larger with age? (2) Is the nasal polyp (inferior turbinate) swollen due to recent inflammation and bleeding? After the inflammation subsides and the bleeding stops, will it shrink back to its original size? I am unsure if it is (1) or (2).
3.
I am not sure if it is psychological or an actual condition, but for the past two days, I have felt a foreign body sensation in my left nasal cavity.
I have lightly dug in, and there isn't much nasal mucus, but the sensation persists.
I would like to ask you, Dr.
Cheng, is this foreign body sensation caused by: (1) inflammation and swelling of the nasal polyp (inferior turbinate)? (2) A scab formed from the wound after the nasal polyp (inferior turbinate) stopped bleeding? I am unsure if it is (1) or (2).
Thank you, Dr.
Cheng.

Axiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/16

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello,
1.
If the examination shows normal nasal turbinates, general bleeding may be related to skin breakdown and will mostly resolve on its own.
Whether oral medication or topical treatment is needed will be determined by the clinician.

2.
Nasal turbinates may become hypertrophied due to chronic inflammation, such as allergies, or may swell due to acute inflammatory bleeding.
If it is acute inflammation, it can retract, but if it is chronic, it may not necessarily return to its original size.

3.
Both scenarios are possible.
It is recommended to observe for one to two weeks; if there is no improvement, a follow-up appointment with an otolaryngologist for further examination is advised.

Wishing you safety and health,
Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng,
Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2021/11/16

More Info

Understanding nasal polyps and their treatment options is crucial for anyone experiencing nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or other related symptoms. Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses due to chronic inflammation. They can vary in size and may occur in one or both nostrils.

Common Concerns Regarding Nasal Polyps
1. Symptoms: The presence of nasal polyps can lead to various symptoms, including nasal congestion, a runny nose, loss of smell, facial pain or pressure, and frequent sinus infections. In some cases, they can also contribute to sleep disturbances, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

2. Causes: The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they are often associated with conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, cystic fibrosis, and chronic sinus infections. Chronic inflammation in the nasal passages can lead to the development of polyps.

3. Diagnosis: A healthcare provider typically diagnoses nasal polyps through a physical examination, often using a nasal endoscope to visualize the nasal passages. Imaging studies, such as CT scans, may also be used to assess the extent of the polyps and any associated sinus issues.

Treatment Options
1. Medications: The first line of treatment for nasal polyps often involves medications. Corticosteroid nasal sprays are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and shrink the polyps. Oral corticosteroids may be used for more severe cases. Additionally, antihistamines can help manage allergy symptoms that may contribute to polyp formation.

2. Surgery: If medications are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can remove polyps and clear blocked sinuses. This surgery aims to restore normal drainage and function of the sinuses.

3. Management of Underlying Conditions: Addressing any underlying conditions, such as allergies or asthma, is essential in managing nasal polyps. This may involve allergy testing and treatment, as well as asthma management strategies.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Patients are often advised to avoid known allergens and irritants, such as tobacco smoke and strong odors, which can exacerbate nasal inflammation. Regular saline nasal irrigation can also help keep the nasal passages clear and reduce symptoms.

Addressing Your Specific Concerns
1. Post-Consultation Management: If your ENT specialist has indicated that the tissue you felt is normal nasal tissue (nasal turbinates) and not polyps, it may not require further treatment unless symptoms persist. However, if you experience recurrent bleeding or discomfort, follow-up care may be warranted.

2. Growth of Nasal Turbinates: Nasal turbinates can indeed change in size due to various factors, including inflammation from allergies or infections. If the inflammation subsides, the turbinates may return to their normal size. However, chronic inflammation can lead to persistent enlargement.

3. Feeling of Foreign Body: The sensation of a foreign body in the nasal cavity could be due to swelling from inflammation or the presence of crusting from dried blood or mucus after a bleeding episode. If this sensation persists, it is advisable to consult your ENT specialist for further evaluation.

In conclusion, understanding nasal polyps and their implications is vital for effective management. If you have ongoing concerns or symptoms, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure appropriate treatment and follow-up care.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sinusitis: Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps and Symptoms

Hello, doctor. I have polyps on both sides of my nose, which seem to occupy more than half of the nasal passages when I shine a flashlight in. I experience yellow discharge while sleeping, along with nasal congestion and itching, which makes it difficult for me to sleep at night....

Dr. Hong Guangliang reply Otolaryngology
Hello, generally speaking, nasal congestion is primarily caused by hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate or nasal polyps. The hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate is often mistakenly referred to as nasal polyps, but the two conditions have different underlying causes and should ...

Understanding Nasal Polyps: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights

I have had nasal allergies for a long time, and despite taking many medications, I have not been able to find a cure. Recently, I caught a cold, and my nose became severely congested with a lot of mucus, which lasted for a long time. After seeing a doctor, I was told that I have ...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Otolaryngology
Airjin: Long-term nasal allergies can indeed lead to the development of nasal polyps, but whether they are actually present can only be determined through examination. It could also be hypertrophic rhinitis or nasal congestion caused by allergic rhinitis. If it is allergic rhinit...

Understanding Nasal Polyps: Surgery Risks and Recovery Insights

Hello Doctor: I have nasal polyps in both nostrils, occupying about 70% of the nasal passages. They have been present for a long time, and recently I have been experiencing persistent nasal congestion while sleeping, along with yellow mucus that forms crusts, causing significant ...

Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: All surgeries carry certain risks, but they do not necessarily result in complications. The likelihood of complications may be related to the nature of the disease, the surgical method used, and the patient's constitution, among other factors. Hook Sin.

Effective Treatments for Nasal Polyps and Allergic Rhinitis in Children

Hello Dr. Yeh, I have two questions to ask. First, I am struggling with enlarged nasal polyps, which are causing me chest tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, headaches, and frequent redness and swelling of my eyes. I visited a medical center and the doctor only prescrib...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Ma'am, both you and your child may consider laser surgery for your issues.