Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They are shaped like teardrops or grapes and hang down like small cysts. They typically result from chronic inflammation due to asthma, recurring infection, allergies, drug sensitivity, or certain immune disorders.

Nasal polyps can be associated with recurrent sinus infections, known as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). CRS is a common medical condition that affects up to 12 out of 100 adults. In the U.S., this equals about 32 million adults. There are 2 major types of CRS, divided based on the presence or absence of nasal polyps (NP); Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and Chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP)

Nasal polyps are a relatively common condition in the U.S. medical landscape. It is estimated that they affect approximately 4% to 11% of the general population. They are most frequently diagnosed in young and middle-aged adults, though they can develop at any age.

While anyone can develop nasal polyps, certain conditions increase the likelihood of chronic inflammation and polyp growth:

  • Asthma: A condition that causes the airways to swell and narrow.
  • Aspirin Sensitivity: Some individuals develop polyps as part of a specific reaction to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Allergic Fungal Sinusitis: An allergy to airborne fungi.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that often results in thick, sticky fluids in the nasal and sinus membranes.
  • Vitamin D Deficiency: Recent studies suggest a link between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of sinus inflammation.

Small polyps may not cause any symptoms. However, larger growths or groups of polyps can block nasal passages and lead to:

  • A persistent runny or stuffy nose.
  • Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat).
  • Decreased or total loss of sense of smell and taste.
  • Facial pain or headache.
  • Pressure over the forehead and face.
  • Snoring.

The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the size of the polyps or eliminate them entirely. Options usually include:

  1. Medications:
    1. Nasal Corticosteroids: Sprays used to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps.
    2. Oral or Injectable Corticosteroids: Used if nasal sprays aren’t effective.
    3. Biologics: Newer injectable medications (such as Dupixent) that target the immune response causing the inflammation.
  2. Surgery: If medication does not shrink or eliminate the polyps, endoscopic sinus surgery may be necessary. This is a minimally invasive procedure where a surgeon uses a small tube with a camera (endoscope) to remove the polyps and clear the sinus openings. Because nasal polyps tend to recur, long-term management—such as using a saline rinse or continuing nasal sprays—is often recommended even after successful treatment.

If you are experiencing chronic congestion or a loss of smell, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if nasal polyps are the cause and to discuss a personalized treatment plan.