Nasal Polyps
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths inside your nose or sinuses (air-filled spaces around the nose). They are noncancerous and usually grow in the lining of your nasal passages, usually on both sides. Small polyps are teardrop-shaped, while larger ones resemble peeled grapes.
Nasal polyps come in different colours, from pink to yellow or grey. Small polyps may not cause any issues, but larger ones can block your nasal passages and make breathing hard.
It’s important to keep in mind that you’re not alone in dealing with nasal polyps. They affect up to 40% of the general population and are especially common among adults in their 30s and 40s. This condition can be frustrating and uncomfortable, affecting your quality of life. However, knowing that many others share this experience can provide some comfort and support.
This is where Nuffield ENT comes in, offering a range of specialised care tailored to your needs and committed assistance to help you reclaim your comfort and breathing. Our dedicated specialists don’t just address the symptoms—we focus on comprehensive care to improve your nasal health. If you’re dealing with nasal polyps, Nuffield ENT is here to provide expert solutions and support. Contact us today and achieve a better breathing for years to come.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Blocked Nasal Passages: You may feel like your nasal passages are always clogged, making it hard to breathe comfortably through your nose. It can be like trying to breathe through a straw that’s partially blocked.
Nosebleeds: You may experience blood loss through your nose, usually just in one nostril. This happens when a tissue from the lining of your nose bursts.
Frequent Runny Nose: Your nose may run more than usual, leading you to blow it frequently as it seems unable to stop producing mucus.
Sleep apnea or other sleeping disorders: This may cause you to stop breathing in the middle of your sleep causing you to feel tired or weak during the day due to lack of rest.
Breathing through your mouth: Once the polyp blocks the passage of your nose, you will find it hard to breathe through your nose, which causes you to breathe through your mouth instead.
Postnasal Drip: Mucus may trickle down the back of your throat, causing a persistent, annoying sensation. This can lead to a sore throat and a constant urge to clear your throat.
Decreased Sense of Smell: You may notice that your ability to smell is diminished or that you lose your sense of smell entirely. This can affect how you experience flavours.
Altered Taste: With a reduced sense of smell, foods might seem less flavorful, which can lead to a decrease in your appetite.
Increased Headaches: It’s more likely you’ll get increased headaches due to pressure and congestion in your sinuses.
Facial Tenderness: Your face, especially around your nose and forehead, might feel sore or tender. This discomfort could indicate inflammation in that area, signalling that something isn’t quite right.
More Coughing: You might cough more, especially at night, as mucus from your nose drips into your throat. This can interrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tired during the day.
Tooth Pain: Pain or discomfort in your upper teeth can occur, often linked to sinus pressure. This can be an additional source of discomfort that complicates your symptoms.
Increased Sneezing: You might sneeze more often, which can be disruptive and a sign of ongoing irritation in your nasal passages.
Itchy Eyes: You may experience itching or irritation around your eyes, which can be both distracting and uncomfortable. This symptom is often caused by inflammation or allergens affecting your nasal passages.
Louder Snoring: You may notice that you snore more loudly while sleeping, which can be caused by nasal congestion. When your nasal passages are blocked, it can restrict airflow and create vibrations in your throat, leading to louder snoring.
More Sinus Infections: You may experience sinus infections more often if you have nasal polyps. The polyps can block your nasal passages, leading to trapped mucus and increased bacterial growth, which makes you more susceptible to infections.
Excessive Mucus Production: Your nose may produce an unusually high amount of mucus, leading to a feeling of constant congestion and the need to manage frequent mucus flow.
These symptoms can persist for a long time and won’t resolve on their own like a common cold might.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, contact Nuffield ENT for a comprehensive evaluation and personalised treatment plan. Our experts are here to help you breathe easier and enjoy life without discomfort.
Nasal Polyps Causes
Asthma: Individuals with asthma often experience chronic inflammation in their airways. This inflammation can extend to the nasal passages, leading to the growth of nasal polyps and breathing difficulties.
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): When exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust, or mould, your nasal lining can become inflamed. Persistent irritation from these allergens can cause the nasal lining to swell and eventually form polyps.
Chronic Sinus Infections: Frequent or ongoing sinus infections can cause long-term inflammation in the sinuses. This continuous inflammation creates a favourable environment for polyps to develop, leading to persistent nasal congestion and discomfort.
Chronic rhinosinusitis: This causes the sinuses and nasal passages to be inflamed, which can last for 12 weeks or in some cases, even longer.
Cystic Fibrosis: This genetic disorder affects the production and consistency of mucus, making it unusually thick and sticky. The thick mucus can block airways and sinuses, contributing to the formation of nasal polyps.
Medication Sensitivities: Some people are sensitive to certain pain relievers, such as aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This sensitivity can trigger inflammation in the nasal passages and increase the likelihood of polyps.
Genetic Factors: Your genetic predisposition can influence how your nasal tissues respond to inflammation. Specific genetic factors can make you more susceptible to developing nasal polyps.
Chronic Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like Churg-Strauss syndrome or vasculitis involve long-term inflammation that can affect the nasal passages, leading to the formation of polyps.
Nasal Polyps Diagnosis
- Medical History and Symptom Review:Your doctor will start by discussing your symptoms and any relevant medical history. They will focus on conditions like allergies, asthma, or chronic sinus infections, which can contribute to polyps.
- Physical Examination: The next step involves a thorough examination of your nose. Your doctor may use a nasal endoscope—a thin tube with a camera and light—to view the inside of your nasal passages and identify any polyps.
- Imaging Tests: To get a clearer picture of your sinuses, your doctor might recommend a CT scan (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). These imaging techniques provide detailed views of your sinuses and help assess the size and location of the polyps.
- Allergy Tests: If allergies are suspected to be a contributing factor, your doctor may suggest allergy tests. These tests help pinpoint specific allergens that may be causing inflammation and polyp growth.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can provide additional information, such as checking vitamin D levels. Low levels of vitamin D can be associated with nasal polyp formation.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a small tissue sample (biopsy) might be taken to rule out other conditions and ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Your doctor will carefully review all the information gathered to diagnose your condition and assess the size and location of any nasal polyps.
It’s important to prioritise your health—early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms. For persistent nasal issues, reach out to your GP, they are there to support you and can refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and care.
Nasal Polyps Treatments
- Nasal Sprays: Often, the first line of treatment is a corticosteroid nasal spray. Your doctor may prescribe this to help shrink the polyps and alleviate symptoms. Many people find these sprays effective in reducing congestion and inflammation.
- Monoclonal antibody drugs: A few monoclonal antibody drugs, namely dupilumab (Dupixent), omalizumab (Xolair), and mepolizumab (Nucala) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Test for cystic fibrosis: This is a sweat test that involves putting a chemical on your skin that causes it to sweat and determine whether your sweat is saltier than most people’s.
- Antibiotics: While antibiotics rarely get rid of nasal polyps, yet it can ease its symptoms, particularly in relieving infections caused by bacteria.
- Antileukotrienes: With anti-inflammatory properties, antileukotrienes reduce and allergy response in nasal polyps and prevent severe swelling.
- Oral Steroids: If nasal sprays don’t provide enough relief, your doctor might recommend oral steroids like fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone, and prednisone.
- Biologic Treatments: For more severe cases, your doctor may suggest newer treatments known as biologics, such as dupilumab or mepolizumab. These injectable medications target specific components of your immune system and can be beneficial for individuals with persistent or severe nasal polyps.
- Surgery: If medications aren’t effective and no sign of improvement is seen after about 12 weeks, a surgery may be suggested by your GP. Endoscopic sinus surgery is a common procedure where a surgeon uses a tiny camera to visualise your nasal passages and remove the polyps. Polypectomy uses surgical scissors to remove the polyps. Balloon sinuplasty unblocks your nasal passages by inflating a small balloon through your nostril.
- Post-Surgery Care: After surgery, using nasal sprays may be necessary to prevent the polyps from returning. Your doctor might also recommend saline rinses to help keep your nasal passages clean and clear.
- Managing Allergies and Asthma: If you have allergies or asthma in addition to nasal polyps, addressing those conditions can help. Your treatment plan may include antihistamines or inhalers to manage symptoms more effectively.
- Aspirin Desensitisation: For those with aspirin sensitivity, a process called aspirin desensitisation may be helpful. This involves gradually taking small doses of aspirin under medical supervision to reduce sensitivity over time.
Nasal Polyps Risks
Asthma: People with respiratory conditions or diseases, like asthma, have a higher chance of having nasal polyps due to constant reaction to swelling in nasal passages.
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever): The chronic inflammation and nasal obstruction can cause nasal polyp development due to bacteria that can form on obstructed sinuses.
Cystic fibrosis: Increases your risk of having nasal polyps due to tissues that grow inside your nasal passages and even sinuses. The infection and blockage due to these tissues can cause nasal polyps.
Hypersensitivity to certain NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): The allergic reactions certain NSAIDs can cause to the immune system can trigger inflammation and blockage in the nasal passages that may later on develop to nasal polyps.
Genetics: Family history can also contribute to the formation of nasal polyps. If your family members also have nasal polyps or other related conditions, it increases the possibility that you may also have nasal polyps.
Nasal Polyps Complications
Breathing Difficulties: Nasal polyps can block your nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through your nose. This can lead to discomfort and a feeling of suffocation, impacting your daily activities.
Meningitis: While rare, nasal polyps can cause meningitis, or the infection in tissues around the brain and spinal cord. When infected, the membranes swell, pressing on the brain or spinal cord and this can worsen quickly.
Abscesses: Pockets of infection or abscess are known to spread fast and affect your brain and eye sockets that can affect your membrane and sense of sight in the long run.
Loss of Smell: Larger polyps may impair your sense of smell, which may also dull your taste perception and diminish your enjoyment of food. Nuffield ENT provides early intervention that can help manage this issue effectively.
Frequent Infections: Blocked sinuses can trap bacteria, resulting in recurring sinus infections that cause discomfort and require repeated treatments. Our specialists can help you develop a comprehensive management plan, which may include medications or even surgery to clear blockages.
Bleeding: Having nasal polyps means more fragile blood vessels that can easily burst with little pressure applied when sneezing, blowing, or picking your nose, which causes bleeding.
Frequent asthma attacks: Due to the blockage of airflow and the increased mucus production that nasal polyps cause, it also poses complications like frequent asthma attacks due to loss of breathing passages.
Sleep Problems: Nasal obstruction from polyps can lead to snoring or sleep apnea, disrupting your sleep patterns and leaving you feeling tired during the day.
Vision Changes: In rare cases, large polyps can press against the eye area, leading to bulging or double vision. If you experience any vision changes, seek immediate medical attention. Prompt assessment can help prevent serious complications.
Bone Damage (osteitis): Chronic inflammation from untreated polyps can weaken nearby bones, leading to potential structural issues in your facial region. Regular follow-ups with your doctor can help monitor inflammation and prevent long-term damage.
Spread of Infection: In severe cases, untreated infections can spread to your eye sockets or brain, posing significant health risks. Solution: Don’t ignore persistent symptoms. If you experience facial pain or swelling, contact Nuffield ENT for a thorough evaluation.
At Nuffield ENT, we understand how nasal polyps can affect your life. Don’t ignore nasal symptoms—early diagnosis and personalised treatment can make a significant difference. Book your appointment today—we’re here to help you breathe easier and feel better.
Why Choose Nuffield ENT for Nasal Polyps Treatment?
Cutting-Edge Treatments: We utilise the latest advancements in medical technology and treatments. Whether you need advanced medications or surgical options, our approach is tailored to ensure the best possible outcomes.
High Patient Satisfaction: With a Google review rating of 4.8/5 from over 1,000 patients, we take pride in our commitment to patient care. Many of our patients highlight our prompt appointment times and the friendly demeanour of our staff.
Personalised Care Plans: At Nuffield ENT, we recognize that every patient is unique. That’s why we create care plans tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment.
Modern Facilities: Our clinic is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technology, providing you with a comfortable environment where you can focus on healing.
Comprehensive Follow-Up Care: Your journey doesn’t end after your initial treatment. We provide ongoing support and follow-up care to ensure long-term relief from nasal polyps, helping you breathe easier for years to come.
Don’t let nasal polyps affect your quality of life. Choose Nuffield ENT for expert care and personalised solutions. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward clearer breathing tomorrow.
Cost of Nasal Polyps Treatment in Singapore
- Nasal sprays:These are often the initial treatment for nasal polyps, with costs typically ranging from $SGD 20 to $SGD 100 per month. These corticosteroid sprays are effective at reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, helping to alleviate symptoms such as congestion and discomfort.
- Oral Steroids:For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe oral steroids. A course of these medications can cost between $SGD 50 and $SGD 200. While they are effective for short-term relief, it’s essential to use them under medical supervision.
- Surgery:If medications are not sufficient, surgery may be necessary to remove the polyps. The cost for nasal polyp removal surgery generally ranges from $SGD 5,000 to $SGD 15,000. This price typically includes the operation, hospital stay, and follow-up care.
Factors Influencing Costs
Please keep in mind that these prices are estimates and can vary based on several factors:
- Size and Number of Polyps:Larger or multiple polyps may require more complex treatment.
- Complexity of the Procedure:Some cases may involve additional challenges that can affect pricing.
- Type of Insurance:Public and private health insurance may cover certain costs, impacting your out-of-pocket expenses.
Taking action sooner rather than later can help mitigate costs and lead to better health outcomes. Nuffield ENT is dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you navigate your treatment journey. Book your appointment today to explore the best options for your needs.
Are There Subsidies for Nasal Polyps Treatment in Singapore?
At Nuffield ENT, we aim to simplify the payment process for you. GST registered, Nuffield ENT accepts cash, NETS, bank transfer, and all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex), and Child Development Account (CDA) Baby Bonus. You may also check with your insurance provider for more coverage.
If you’re dealing with nasal polyps, the financial burden of treatment can be concerning. Fortunately, Singapore offers various subsidies to help make healthcare more accessible for citizens and permanent residents.
MediSave lets you use savings for medical treatments like nasal polyp surgery, while MediShield Life covers hospital stays and some outpatient treatments. The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) provides subsidies for low-income individuals at participating clinics. Singapore citizens can receive up to 80% off hospital bills through subsidised care at public hospitals.
The Nuffield ENT team aims to offer accessible, transparent, and reliable healthcare, ensuring that all patients, regardless of citizenship, receive the same high level of service. Subsidised care based on your citizenship and ward class are also available for your disposal.
Remember, seeking treatment shouldn’t be delayed due to cost concerns. Take the first step towards relief—book an appointment with a nasal specialist at Nuffield ENT.
Preventing Nasal Polyps
Follow Your Personalised Treatment Plan: Your doctor will create a tailored plan to guide your recovery. Adhering to this plan is essential for promoting healing and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Use Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays: These sprays are often recommended to minimise inflammation in your nasal passages. Be sure to use them exactly as directed by your doctor to achieve the best results.
Incorporate a Humidifier: If you live in a dry climate, a humidifier can make a significant difference. It adds moisture to the air, which helps ease breathing and prevents sinus blockages, making your environment more comfortable.
Utilise Nasal Rinses or Saline Sprays: Regularly rinsing your nasal passages with a sterile saline solution can help keep them clean and moist. This practice helps flush out irritants and promotes better sinus health.
Avoid Irritants: Be mindful of substances that may trigger nasal irritation, such as dust, smoke, and allergens. If you have allergies or asthma, managing these conditions effectively is vital for your nasal health.
Monitor Your Symptoms: Stay aware of any changes in your condition. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor. They may need to adjust your treatment plan to ensure it’s effective for you.
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FAQs
No, nasal polyps rarely resolve without treatment. While medications may help reduce their size, surgery is often necessary for complete removal.
Nasal polyps are generally soft and painless, while tumours may cause discomfort or bleeding. A definitive diagnosis can only be made by a doctor through a thorough examination and imaging studies.
If left untreated, nasal polyps can grow large enough that it can cause more health complications and trigger other long-term and severe illnesses that can be due to lack of proper air supply due to the blockage nasal polyps produce.
Yes, in some cases, nasal polyps shrink on their own.
It’s crucial to check with relevant healthcare providers, insurance companies, educational institutions, and government websites to get the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding subsidies, Medisave usage, CHAS benefits, and other forms of financial assistance for ENT services in Singapore. Understanding the available options can help individuals effectively manage the costs of ENT healthcare.
Certain medicines can cure nasal polyps permanently. Other options to have nasal polyps removed permanently involve surgeries, such as polypectomy, endoscopic surgery, and balloon sinuplasty.
While it has not been proven yet that nasal polyps are life-threatening, it may cause a significant inconvenience to your daily activities as it causes lack of proper ventilation and drainage.
Small nasal polyps are usually not visible when you look up your nose. However, larger polyps may present as greyish-white growths near the nasal opening.
No. It is unlikely that you can feel nasal polyps with your finger, as they are usually positioned deep within the nasal passages or sinuses.
No, nasal polyps do not typically dislodge on their own; they are attached to the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses.
Yes, there may be a genetic component to nasal polyps. This means that if a family member has had them, you might be at a higher risk. Awareness can empower you to monitor your health more closely.
Please don’t attempt to remove nasal polyps at home. Always seek professional medical advice for appropriate treatment options. Your health and safety are paramount.
Some people find that dairy, alcohol, and spicy foods may worsen their symptoms. Consult your doctor for personalised dietary advice to help manage your condition. Remember, a healthy diet is a vital part of improving your well-being.
Medical References
Newton, Jonathan. “A Review of Nasal Polyposis.” Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management, vol. Volume 4, Apr. 2008, pp. 507–12, doi:10.2147/tcrm.s2379.
Pawliczak, Rafal, et al. “Pathogenesis of Nasal Polyps: An Update.” Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, vol. 5, no. 6, Nov. 2005, pp. 463–71, doi:10.1007/s11882-005-0027-7.