Treating the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are soft, grape-like growths that develop on the nasal lining that produces fluids. Small nasal polyps go unnoticed, but a large one can be found very easily by examining the nasal passage using an otoscope or a nasoscope. Deeper polyps are diagnosed with the help of endoscopy. Sometimes, even a CT scan or an MRI scan is performed to check the size and shape of the polyps. Some even prescribe an allergy test to determine the reason for inflammation. Doctors may even do a test for vitamin D levels in the body since they are directly associated with nasal polyps. Herein, we discuss the various treatment options for the symptoms and warning signs of nasal polyps.
Treatment for Symptoms and Warning Signs of Nasal Polyps
Sinusitis if chronic is a difficult condition to get rid of completely. But it can be kept under check with proper medication and care. The treatment for symptoms and warning signs of nasal polyps mainly includes controlling the symptoms and staying away from the allergy. Treatment usually starts with medication used to shrink or completely remove the polyps, such as
- Nasal Corticosteroids
A nasal spray that contains corticosteroids is used to reduce swelling and inflammation. These nasal sprays have been found to completely remove or shrink the polyps. - Oral and Injectable Corticosteroids
Oral or injectable corticosteroids are used only when nasal sprays are ineffective. Prednisone is administered alone or sometimes in a mixture with the nasal spray. Oral corticosteroids have a history of serious side effects; hence, it is used in moderation and over a limited period of time. Injectable corticosteroids are used only when the polyps are very severe. - Dupilumab
In conditions where the nasal polyps and sinusitis are chronic, doctors sometimes prescribe a Dupilumab injection, which reduces the size of the polyp and even reduces the congestion. - Antihistamines
If the swelling and inflammation are for a longer period, the doctors often prescribe antihistamines to treat the allergy. The doctors even conduct aspirin desensitization under a professional to increase the sensitivity of aspirin. - Endoscopy
If medication yields no effect, doctors will conduct an endoscopy to remove the polyps and control the inflammation. Endoscopy usually involves the insertion of a small tube that is fitted with a lighted magnifying lens which gives a clear view of the nasal passage. Once the polyps are located, the doctor uses small tools to remove the polyps. In some cases, the doctor may also enlarge the opening from the sinusitis to the nasal passage to clear the blockage
Nasal polyps can be controlled by dealing with symptoms and warning signs and staying away from triggers. It will advisable to stay away from nasal irritants and manage allergies that are related to asthma. For controlling the symptoms high importance should be given to maintain full-body hygiene. Humidifying the home will reduce the suspended dust particles in the room and thus reduce a trigger. Cleaning the blockage improves the mucus flow and helps in removing the allergens and irritants that can trigger a nasal polyp. Saline sprays can be purchased to clean the nasal passage and one can practice neti pot for cleaning any blockage in the nasal pathway. While using a neti pot, care has to be taken to use water that is boiled for one minute and then cooled.