You might have nasal polyps if you’ve struggled with blocked sinuses, a constant runny nose, or trouble breathing through your nose. These soft, painless growths inside your nose can cause discomfort and make breathing difficult. Several nasal polyps treatment options are available, ranging from simple medications to more advanced surgical procedures. We’ll discuss the best treatments for nasal polyps and how an ENT specialist in London can help you find relief.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are small, non-cancerous growths that develop in the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. They’re usually shaped like teardrops or grapes and can vary in size. While small polyps might not cause noticeable symptoms, larger ones can block your nasal passages and lead to a range of issues, such as:
- Chronic Sinus Infections: Polyps can block the sinuses, making it harder for mucus to drain properly, leading to frequent infections.
- Difficulty Breathing: When polyps grow large enough, they obstruct airflow through your nose, making breathing hard.
- Loss of Smell and Taste: Polyps can affect your sense of smell and taste, reducing your ability to enjoy food and detect odours.
- Runny Nose and Postnasal Drip: Constant nasal congestion and mucus drainage can cause discomfort and irritation.
Top Treatments for Nasal Polyps
There are several ways to treat nasal polyps, depending on their size, location, and the severity of your symptoms. Here are the most common nasal polyps treatment options:
-
Medications
Medications are usually the first step in treating nasal polyps. These can help reduce the size of the polyps or even eliminate them. The most common medications include:
- Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays: These sprays help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which can shrink the polyps and relieve symptoms. They’re often the first line of treatment and can be very effective for mild to moderate cases.
- Oral or Injectable Corticosteroids: If nasal sprays aren’t enough, your doctor might prescribe oral or injectable corticosteroids. These are stronger and can reduce inflammation more effectively, but they’re usually only used briefly due to potential side effects.
- Antibiotics: If you have a sinus infection besides your polyps, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.
- Antihistamines: If allergies contribute to nasal polyps, antihistamines can help control allergic reactions and reduce symptoms.
- Biologics: These are newer medications that target specific pathways involved in inflammation. They can be an option if other treatments haven’t worked.
-
Nasal Polyp Surgery
If medications don’t work, or if the polyps are large and causing severe symptoms, surgery might be necessary. ENT specialists in London often recommend surgery for people with persistent nasal polyps that don’t respond to other treatments. The most common surgical options include:
- Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: This is the most common surgery for removing nasal polyps. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (an endoscope) to look inside your nasal passages. They then use tiny instruments to remove the polyps and any other obstructions. This surgery is usually done under general anaesthesia; most patients can go home the same day.
- Polypectomy is a simpler procedure where the polyps are removed using a suction device or microdebrider. It’s less invasive than full sinus surgery and can be done in a doctor’s office under local anaesthesia.
-
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies
In addition to medications and surgery, certain lifestyle changes and home remedies can help manage symptoms and prevent polyps from coming back:
- Use a Humidifier: Keeping the air in your home moist can help reduce nasal irritation and clear your sinuses.
- Rinse Your Sinuses: Regularly rinsing nasal passages with saline solution can help clear mucus and reduce inflammation. This is often recommended daily for people with chronic sinus issues.
- Manage Allergies: If allergies trigger your nasal polyps, it’s important to manage them effectively. This might involve avoiding allergens, taking antihistamines, or using allergy-proof bedding.
When to See an ENT Specialist in London
If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatments or basic home remedies and still experience symptoms, it’s time to see an ENT specialist in London. These specialists have the expertise to diagnose and treat nasal polyps effectively, whether through medication or surgery.
An ENT specialist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include a nasal endoscopy (using a small camera to look inside your nose) or imaging tests like a CT scan. This helps them see the size and location of the polyps and determine the best treatment plan for you.
Conclusion
Are you tired of struggling with the symptoms of nasal polyps and wondering if there’s a solution that could work for you? Have you considered what life could be like with clear sinuses and easier breathing? Understanding your treatment options is the first step toward relief. If you’re ready to explore effective solutions, why not contact a trusted ENT specialist in London? Take the next step and ask yourself: Isn’t it time to prioritise your nasal health? For more information and to discover the best treatment for your needs, visit ENT London.
