Nasal Polyp Treatment Now Available in Biloxi & Ocean Springs
What are Nasal Polyps and how can I get rid of them?
Nasal polyps are benign (noncancerous) growths of the tissue which lines the nose. If you’ve ever felt like you have a cold that doesn’t go away, this may be due to nasal polyps.
During an infection or allergy-induced irritation, the nasal lining becomes swollen and red, producing a steady fluid drip. During prolonged irritation, a polyp (or small cyst) may form, blocking the nasal passages. Nasal polyps may also form due to asthma, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), cystic fibrosis, Churg-Strauss syndrome, and sensitivity to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Medical Treatment
Medications that reduce inflammation may help to reduce the size of the polyp and relieve symptoms of congestion. Nasal steroid sprays can reduce runny nose symptoms and the sensation of blockage by shrinking the polyp. Oral or injectable steroids are options if nasal sprays don’t produce results, but these are not long-term solutions due to potential side effects, such as fluid retention, increased blood pressure, and elevated pressure in the eyes.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery can remove the polyps completely if medical treatments fail. A polypectomy is an outpatient surgery done with a small suction device or a microdebrider which removes soft tissue. Endoscopic sinus surgery using a thin, flexible endoscope with a tiny camera and small tools on the end can be used to remove larger polyps. Following surgery, nasal sprays and saline washes can prevent polyps from returning.