Nasal Polyps

What are nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, painless lumps that grow inside your nose. Think of them like small grapes hanging down from the lining of your nose. They're not cancer and they don't usually cause serious problems. However, they can keep growing bigger and block your nose if you don't get them treated.

How do I know if I might have nasal polyps?

The most common signs include:

• Blocked nose - feeling like you can't breathe properly through your nose
• Runny nose - having a constantly drippy nose
• Mucus dripping down your throat - feeling like snot is slowly sliding down the back of your throat
• Less sense of smell or taste - food might taste bland or you can't smell things as well
• Snoring - making noise when you sleep because air can't flow properly

Nasal polyps can feel a bit like having a cold that won't go away. But colds usually get better in a few days, while nasal polyps stay until they're treated.

If the polyps block your sinuses (the air spaces around your nose), you might also get symptoms like face pain or pressure.

When should I speak to my GP?

You should see your GP if you:

• Think you might have nasal polyps
• Have trouble breathing through your nose
• Notice your symptoms getting worse
• Find that your sense of smell is changing

Don't wait - it's better to get checked early.

How are nasal polyps treated?

Your GP can usually tell if you have nasal polyps just by looking inside your nose with a small light.

First treatment is usually steroid nose drops or spray. These help shrink the polyps so you can breathe better. Sometimes your GP might give you steroid tablets for up to 2 weeks to help with symptoms.

Always follow your GP's instructions about how to use your medicine and for how long.

If medicine doesn't work after about 12 weeks, your GP might suggest surgery to remove the polyps. Most people feel much better after surgery, but polyps often grow back within a few years. You might need to keep using steroid nose spray after surgery to stop them returning quickly.

What can I do to help myself?

A pharmacist can recommend:

• Steroid nose sprays you can buy without a prescription
• Salt water washes to help unblock your nose

To make your own salt water wash:

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda in about 1 pint of cooled boiled water
2. Wash your hands
3. Stand over a sink and pour a small amount into your cupped palm
4. Sniff the mixture up one nostril and let it run out
5. Repeat at least 3 times for each nostril

Make sure the mixture isn't too hot, and don't swallow it as it might make you feel sick. This method isn't suitable for children.

What causes nasal polyps?

Doctors don't know exactly what causes nasal polyps. You're more likely to get them if you have asthma or if aspirin upsets you. They're quite rare in children.

Remember, if you're worried about symptoms that might be nasal polyps, speak to your GP. They can check what's causing your problems and help you find the right treatment.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.