Non-cancerous growths along the nasal passages are referred to as nasal polyps. When nasal polyps are small in size, they might not cause any visible symptoms. On the other hand, larger nasal polyps can be accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms.

Anyone can be affected by this condition, so it is essential to know the causes and symptoms of nasal polyps.

What causes nasal polyps?
It is important to understand the causes and symptoms of nasal polyps to facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment. The nasal mucosa has inflamed tissue in which nasal polyps usually grow, and it is this mucosa that provides protection to the inside part of the sinuses and the nose. It also helps with the humidification of the air that we inhale. In the case of an infection, the mucosa can experience swelling and redness. It can also start making fluid that keeps flowing out. If the infection or the irritation caused by the infection is left untreated, a polyp can form in the mucosa. This polyp is a small, non-cancerous growth that is tiny like a cyst and can create an obstruction in the nasal passage.

Nasal polyps can affect anyone, including people without a history of nasal health issues. However, there is a trigger in most cases that causes the polyps to grow in the nasal passage. These triggers can include the following:

• Recurring or chronic sinus infections
• Hay fever or allergic rhinitis
• Asthma
• Churg-Strauss syndrome
• Cystic fibrosis
• Reaction to NSAIDs

Genetic factors may also contribute to the development of this condition. This is because genes could have a role to play in the reaction of the mucosa to inflammation, which causes the development of polyps.

What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are linked to inflammation and irritation caused along the sinuses and nasal passage lining. The swelling and irritation usually lasts for over 12 weeks and is known as chronic sinusitis.

In some cases, chronic sinusitis might even occur without the occurrence of nasal polyps.

Nasal polyps are small cyst-like structures that are soft and do not cause any sensation. So, if they are small in size, they might not lead to any symptoms, which is why most people don’t realize that they have them. However, when they multiply in number or grow in size, they start blocking the sinuses and the nasal passage. The various causes of nasal polyps can lead to varying symptoms and cause complications.

When chronic sinusitis occurs with nasal polyps, it can lead to the following symptoms:

• A runny nose
• A persistent feeling of stuffiness in the nose
• A reduced or missing sense of smell and taste
• Headache or facial pain
• Snoring
• Nosebleeds that become frequent over time
• A feeling of pressure on the face and forehead