polyps
Polyps are grape like swellings inside the nose. They affect 1-2% of the population but are more common in patients with asthma and may have a similar cause. They are made of thickened sinus lining which swells, may fill and block the sinuses and which hangs down into the nose.
Patients develop feelings of pressure and congestion with nasal blockage. Infection may also occur and a decrease in ability to smell and taste may be apparent.
Polyps may be found to have a genetic cause in the future.
Polyps may be treated to shrink them with steroid tablets, nasal drops or nasal sprays.
Polyps may be removed with surgery (endoscopic nasal polypectomy and functional endoscopic sinus surgery).
For a more detailed guide to these procedures click on one
of
the following:
