Key Symptoms to Know
Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths that form on the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. They are noncancerous but can cause discomfort and other issues if they grow large enough to block your airways. To help with them, consider XOLAIR (omalizumab), which is used to treat chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in adults.
Signs of Nasal Polyps
Nasal Congestion
One of the most common signs of nasal polyps is persistent nasal congestion. You might feel like you always have a stuffy nose, making it difficult to breathe through your nose.
Runny Nose
A continuous runny nose is another sign. You may notice a clear or colored discharge that doesn’t seem to go away, even with treatment.
Loss of Smell
Nasal polyps can reduce or completely block your sense of smell. This can also affect your sense of taste since the two senses are closely linked.
Postnasal Drip
You might feel mucus dripping down the back of your throat, known as postnasal drip. This can lead to a sore throat or a persistent cough.
Facial Pain or Pressure
Nasal polyps can cause a feeling of pressure or pain in your face, particularly around your forehead, eyes and cheeks.
Snoring
If nasal polyps block your airways, you may start snoring at night. In severe cases, this can lead to sleep apnea, where your breathing stops and starts during sleep.
Frequent Sinus Infections
Nasal polyps can increase your risk of sinus infections. If you’re experiencing sinus infections more often than usual, it could be due to polyps.
Headaches
The pressure from large nasal polyps can cause frequent headaches or a feeling of heaviness in your head.
Mouth Breathing
If it becomes difficult to breathe through your nose, you might start breathing through your mouth, especially while sleeping.
Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps
If you suspect you have nasal polyps, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Here are some common treatments:
Nasal Corticosteroids
Your doctor may prescribe nasal sprays or drops that contain corticosteroids. These can reduce the size of the polyps and relieve symptoms.
Oral and Injectable Corticosteroids
For larger polyps or more severe symptoms, oral or injectable corticosteroids may be necessary. These are more potent than nasal sprays but can have side effects with long-term use.
Saline Nasal Rinses
Saline rinses can help clear your nasal passages and reduce irritation. They’re often used alongside other treatments.
Allergy Medications
If allergies contribute to your nasal polyps, your doctor may recommend antihistamines or other allergy medications to manage your symptoms.
Surgery
In cases where medications don’t provide relief, surgery may be required to remove the polyps. The most common procedure is endoscopic sinus surgery, where a small camera and instruments are used to remove the polyps.
Biologic Medications
For some people, especially those with other conditions like asthma, biologic medications that target specific immune responses may be effective in shrinking polyps and reducing symptoms.
XOLAIR
XOLAIR (omalizumab) is a medication used to treat moderate to severe persistent asthma in individuals whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids. It's particularly prescribed for patients with allergic asthma, which is triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites or pet dander.
The Warning Signs of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps can cause uncomfortable symptoms, but with the right treatment, you can manage them effectively. If you notice signs like persistent congestion, loss of smell or frequent sinus infections, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They can recommend the best course of treatment to help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life.