Nasal polyposis

Nasal polyposis is a disease of the mucous membrane of the nose and paranasal cavities, with localized formation of benign petiolate growths on the mucous membrane – polyps. Although this name is common, it should be said that a more precise name, which can be seen from the definition, is rhinosinus or sinonasal polyposis.

The disease is relatively common, with an incidence (prevalence) of one to four percent, with a tendency to increase. There are two important factors in the increase in sinonasal polyposis.

One is the progress in diagnostics, endoscopy of the nose and paranasal cavities and CT scans of the area, and the other is the increase in the incidence of chronic inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system, especially asthma.

According to scientific knowledge, eosinophils play a key role in the pathogenetic mechanisms of nasal polyposis.

They produce and release pro-inflammatory cytokines in the tissue of nasal polyps, which then regulate their activity and survival, thus altering eosinophilic inflammatory effects.

Thus, nasal polyposis appears to be a self-sustaining chronic inflammatory process in which the presence of an initial provoking factor is not necessary for the duration of the disease.

Nasal polyps can cause a variety of symptoms that can vary in intensity. Here are some common symptoms of nasal polyps:

1. Nasal congestion – Nasal polyps can cause shortness of breath and a feeling of nasal congestion.
2. Rhinitis- Abundant nasal discharge, which can be watery or thick in consistency, is often present in people with nasal polyps.
3. Loss of sense of smell and taste – Nasal polyps can interfere with the normal flow of air through the nose, which can result in a loss of sense of smell and taste.
4. Headaches- The pressure and irritation caused by nasal polyps can result in headaches, especially in the forehead and cheek area.
5. Difficulty breathing – Large or numerous polyps can cause difficulty breathing through the nose, even when the person does not have a cold.
6. Pressure in the face – A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the facial area, especially around the nose and eyes, can be a symptom of nasal polyps.
7. Cough- Nasal polyps can cause throat irritation, resulting in coughing.
8. Problems with breathing through the mouth – Due to nasal congestion, people with nasal polyps may have difficulty breathing through the nose, which can lead to mouth breathing.

People who have been diagnosed with nasal and sinus polyps should necessarily seek an examination by an otorhinolaryngologist (ENT) specialist. A specific examination, such as an endoscopic examination of the nose and sinuses, allows for an accurate diagnosis and differentiation between benign polyps and those associated with tumors.

Treatment for nasal and sinus polyps may include conservative methods, such as steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines to control inflammation.

In some cases, especially when polyps are large or cause severe symptoms, surgery may be considered. Surgical removal of polyps, usually performed by endoscopic technique, allows for precise removal of growths and improvement of the patient’s symptoms.

The nose is an important part of the upper respiratory tract and its proper function is crucial for the functioning of the whole body. Through the passable airways, the risks of disease are lower, and sleep is deeper and more restful

Make an appointment at the LF Polyclinic today. Call us at +3851 2444 646 or fill out the online form.