Nasal Polyps: A Common Cause of Nasal Congestion That Goes Unnoticed

By: Dr. dr. Ronny Suwento, Sp.THT-KL (K)

A stuffy nose is often mistaken for a common cold or flu. However, if this condition persists and doesn't improve, it could be caused by nasal polyps.

Nasal polyps are soft tissue growths that appear in the nasal cavity or sinuses. This condition often goes unnoticed because the symptoms are similar to those of a cold or sinusitis. However, if not treated properly, nasal polyps can interfere with breathing and the sufferer's quality of life.

What Are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are fluid-filled soft tissue growths that appear in the lining of the nose or sinuses. They are usually round or oval in shape with a smooth surface and can originate in the nasal cavity or surrounding sinuses. If they originate in the sinuses, polyps can grow into the nasal cavity, appearing as if they were coming from the nose, and there is a risk of recurrence if not removed properly.

Polyps are not malignant (malignant tumors), but they can cause various symptoms if they enlarge or become numerous. Nasal polyps often occur in people with chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract, such as those with sinusitis or allergic rhinitis.

Causes of Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps generally appear due to long-term inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose and sinuses. Several conditions that can increase the risk of developing nasal polyps include:

• Chronic sinus infections (sinusitis)
• Allergic rhinitis
• Asthma
• Sensitivity to certain medications
• History of recurrent respiratory infections
• Genetic factors or family history.

Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

Symptoms of nasal polyps often mimic those of the common cold, so many people don't even realize they have them. Some symptoms that may appear include:

• Persistent nasal congestion
• Runny or runny nose
• Decreased or loss of sense of smell.
• Smelly or bloody nasal discharge (nosebleeds) if present with sinusitis.
• Spontaneous facial pain (cheeks, bridge of nose, forehead) or tenderness in the cheeks.
• Headache
• Snoring during sleep
• Mucus draining down the throat.

How to Treat Nasal Polyps

Treatment for nasal polyps aims to reduce inflammation and shrink the size of the polyps. Some treatment methods include:

1. Medications (if the polyps are small)
2. Nasal and sinus polyp surgery

How to Prevent Nasal Polyps

While not all cases can be prevented, the following steps can help reduce the risk of developing nasal polyps:

• Manage allergies well
• Avoid exposure to dust and pollution
• Maintain humidity at home
• Maintain respiratory health
• Treat nasal and sinus infections early.

A persistent nasal congestion isn't always caused by a common cold. This condition could be a sign of nasal polyps, which require further examination.

FAQ

Are nasal polyps dangerous?
Nasal polyps are generally benign or harmless. However, if they enlarge or are numerous, they can cause nasal congestion, respiratory problems, and even a decreased sense of smell. Therefore, this condition still needs to be examined by a doctor.

Can nasal polyps disappear without surgery?
In some cases, small nasal polyps can shrink with treatments such as nasal sprays containing corticosteroids. However, if the polyps are large or don't improve with treatment, your doctor will recommend surgery to remove the polyps.

Can nasal polyps recur after surgery?
Nasal polyps do have the potential to recur, especially if the underlying cause of the inflammation remains uncontrolled. Therefore, patients usually require regular medication and check-ups after surgery.
Another cause of recurrence is if surgery removes only the visible portion of the polyp in the nasal cavity, even though the polyp originated in the sinus cavity.
 

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