Sometimes, our sinuses need a little help to relieve pressure or clear fluids. But what happens when these could be symptoms of a more serious problem?
Are you wondering what is a nasal polyp? Nasal polyps are non-cancerous growths that form in the sinus cavities. These growths have made up of mucus, skin cells, and blood vessels.
They come in clusters, and symptoms can range from mild to debilitating. You may have nasal polyps and not even know it!
Keep reading to learn more about nasal polyp symptoms you might be experiencing. Let’s begin!
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Postnasal Drip
This can include a feeling of fullness or pressure in the sinuses, difficulty breathing through the nose, a decreased sense of smell, or a constant need to clear the throat.
Sinus surgery for nasal polyps is an effective invasive procedure and is designed to address a specific set of nasal polyp symptoms. So, be sure to speak with your doctor to know if surgery is the right treatment for you.
Runny Nose
It is usually the result of mucus buildup in the nasal passages. This can happen when the polyps block the drainage holes in the nose, or when they irritate the lining of the nose.
This can also be caused by allergies or colds. In some cases, a runny nose may be the only symptom of nasal polyps.
Poor Sense of Taste
This can be caused by the blockage of the small openings in the nose that lead to the taste buds. When these openings have blocked, it can prevent the proper flow of air and increase the risk of infection.
Treatment for this symptom typically includes steroids or surgery to remove the polyps.
Poor Sense of Smell
If you have a poor sense of smell, it could be because of nasal polyps. These are small, non-cancerous growths that can develop in the lining of your nose or sinuses. They’re usually caused by allergies or infections.
In some cases, they can also be caused by structural problems in your nose. If you have nasal polyp symptoms, you may also have a stuffy nose, trouble breathing, or a feeling of pressure on your face. This is because the nasal cavity has obstructed, making it difficult for air to reach the olfactory bulb.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Nasal polyps are common among people with obstructive sleep apnea. The polyps block the airway, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms of nasal polyps include snoring, difficulty breathing, mouth breathing, and insomnia.
There are a few common nasal polyp symptoms that may help explain why you are seeking out nasal polyp removal. Polyps can also cause nosebleeds and headaches. If left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems, such as respiratory infections, heart problems, and stroke.
Double Vision
There are a few common symptoms associated with nasal polyps, and one of them is double vision. This is because polyps can block the visual pathway between the eye and the brain.
This can cause the brain to receive two different images from the eyes, which can lead to seeing things twice.
Knowing the Common Nasal Polyp Symptoms
If you experience any of the common nasal polyp symptoms such as runny nose, postnasal drip, poor sense of smell and taste, obstructive sleep apnea, and double vision, it is important to consult with your doctor.
Remember, while nasal polyps are generally not cancerous, they can cause serious health complications if left untreated.
For more helpful tips, make sure to check out more of our blogs.
