Nasal Polyps
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Painless, soft growths inside the nose
- Can block nasal passages if untreated
- Symptoms often mimic a common cold but persist
- Treated with steroid sprays or sometimes surgery
- Polyps can often grow back after treatment
Overview
Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that develop on the lining of your nose or sinuses. They are usually painless and can vary in size. While not typically serious, they can cause discomfort and impact your breathing and senses. The exact cause of nasal polyps is not fully understood, but they are often linked to chronic inflammation. They can be managed with medication to shrink them, and sometimes surgery is needed to remove larger or persistent polyps. However, polyps frequently return, requiring ongoing management.
Signs and Symptoms
- Blocked nose
- Runny nose
- Mucus dripping down the back of the throat (postnasal drip)
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Snoring
- Symptoms of sinusitis if sinuses are blocked
Things That Increase the Risk
- Asthma
- Aspirin intolerance or sensitivity
- Chronic sinusitis
- Allergies
Diagnosis
- GP examines inside the nose
- Review of symptoms
- Assessment of medical history
Treatment & Management
- Steroid nose drops or spray to shrink polyps
- Short course of steroid tablets (up to 2 weeks)
- Surgery to remove polyps if medication is ineffective
- Ongoing steroid nasal spray after surgery to prevent recurrence
- Salt water washes (saline rinse) for symptom relief
Prevention
- Regular use of prescribed steroid nasal sprays
- Continue steroid spray after surgery to prevent regrowth
- Perform saline rinses to keep nasal passages clear
- Manage underlying conditions like asthma or allergies
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Nasal Polyps:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Nasal Polyps:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Nose and sinuses
Prevalence
Common in adults, rare in children
Diagnosis
Nasal examination by GP
Treatment
Steroid sprays, sometimes surgery
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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