What are nasal polyps?
As ENT surgeons with a special focus on the nose, sinuses, and skull base, we diagnose and treat conditions such as chronic sinusitis, nasal obstruction, and tumours affecting the nasal cavity and the area around the eyes. We use minimally invasive endoscopic techniques to improve outcomes and recovery. One of the common conditions we treat is nasal polyps — soft, grape-like overgrowths of the normal sinus lining. Polyps can be linked to asthma, allergies, structural issues within the nose, and chronic infections. Early and accurate treatment is important to restore normal sinus function and prevent ongoing symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
- Blocked or stuffy nose (nasal congestion that doesn’t improve)
- Reduced sense of smell (anosmia) or loss of taste
- Runny nose (persistent nasal discharge)
- Postnasal drip (a feeling of mucus dripping down the back of the throat)
- Facial pressure or fullness (especially around the cheeks, eyes, and forehead)
- Sinus headaches or a feeling of heaviness in the face
- Snoring or noisy breathing, especially at night
- Frequent sinus infections that are hard to clear
- Difficulty breathing through the nose (mouth breathing is common)
- Sounding ‘nasal’ when speaking (a blocked nose voice)
How do you check for nasal polyps?
To examine the inside of your nose and sinuses, we use a thin, flexible instrument called an endoscope. It has a light and a camera at the tip, allowing us to look directly at the nasal passages. This helps us check for nasal polyps, any unusual growths, signs of inflammation, and features of allergies such as swelling or increased mucus. The procedure is quick, done in the consultation room, and usually very well tolerated.
How We Treat Nasal Polyps:
We start by identifying the underlying cause of the polyps. This may involve blood tests to check for allergies or immune problems and a CT scan to look inside the sinuses and assess the anatomy. We also check for conditions that are often linked to polyps, such as asthma or cystic fibrosis in children. Treatment is then tailored based on the cause. We usually begin with medical therapy, which may include oral medications and topical nasal sprays or drops. If maximal medical treatment is not successful, we will discuss the option of surgery, including the potential benefits and risks.
FAQ
Should I see a doctor for nasal polyps?
Yes — it’s important to see a doctor because nasal polyps can worsen over time and may cause ongoing symptoms like nasal blockage or loss of smell. While most polyps are benign, occasionally, a growth in the nose can be something more serious, such as a tumour. Seeing a specialist allows for a proper examination, diagnosis, and safe management tailored to your needs.
How long does it take to remove nasal polyps?
The duration of surgery depends on the underlying cause and extent of the polyps. Simple sinus procedures can take as little as 60 minutes, while more extensive surgery for severe or widespread polyps may take up to three to four hours. Your surgeon will advise you on what to expect based on your individual case.
Is nasal polyp surgery very painful?
Some discomfort after nasal polyp surgery is normal, such as sinus pressure or mild pain. Most patients require regular pain medication for a few days, which usually controls symptoms well. In cases where surgery is more extensive — particularly if bone needs to be removed — pain may persist for a few weeks and require longer treatment with analgesia. Severe pain is uncommon and may suggest an underlying issue that should be assessed by your doctor.