Plagued by Chronic Sinusitis? You May Have Nasal Polyps

Dealing with chronic sinus infections can feel like an endless cycle—especially if nasal polyps are obstructing your airways. These benign growths can impact your breathing and even dull your sense of smell.

For many people, nasal polyps may not cause any noticeable issues. These noncancerous growths can result from various factors and often go unnoticed. However, in some cases, nasal polyps can lead to difficulty breathing, a diminished sense of smell, and a higher risk of recurring sinus infections.

If it seems like every cold lingers or hits you harder than others, chronic sinusitis could be to blame. For some, large nasal polyps—or clusters of smaller ones—may contribute to frequent sinus infections. Common symptoms include a persistent runny nose, postnasal drip, and trouble breathing through the nose.

Left untreated, nasal polyps can cause complications such as sleep apnea, recurring sinus infections, and more severe asthma attacks. Fortunately, effective treatments are available to address these issues. Mani Zadeh, MD, is a board-certified ear, nose, and throat physician based in Los Angeles, California, who specializes in diagnosing and treating nasal polyps, helping patients find lasting relief.

Why Nasal Polyps Develop

Nasal polyps form from the mucus-producing tissue lining your nose and sinuses. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, there is a link between immune system responses and polyp growth.

Anyone can develop nasal polyps, but they are more common in young and middle-aged adults. They often form in the sinus drainage areas, where long-term inflammation may play a role.

Risk Factors for Nasal Polyps

Chronic inflammation in the nasal passages increases the likelihood of developing polyps. Certain conditions can heighten this risk, including:

Asthma
Aspirin sensitivity
Allergic fungal sinusitis
Cystic fibrosis
Vitamin D deficiency
Rare inflammatory blood disorders

A family history of nasal polyps may also increase your chances of developing them.

Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps

The primary goal of treatment is to shrink or remove nasal polyps. Depending on the severity, Dr. Zadeh may recommend medications, surgery, or a combination of both.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment. Nasal sprays are commonly used to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps. In more severe cases, oral corticosteroids or injections may be necessary. Because of potential long-term side effects, steroid use is typically limited to short courses.

Other Medications

Injectable medications like dupilumab have shown success in treating nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis. Verapamil, often used for heart conditions, is also being studied as a potential treatment. Dr. Zadeh may recommend antihistamines or antibiotics to reduce swelling or clear infections as part of your treatment plan.

Surgical Options

When medications are not enough, endoscopic sinus surgery may be the next step. During this procedure, Dr. Zadeh can remove polyps and improve airflow by widening the nasal passages.

Dr. Zadeh and his team stay at the forefront of advancements in treating nasal polyps. If you’re ready to break free from chronic sinus issues, schedule an appointment with us online or by phone today. Let us help you breathe easier and enjoy life to the fullest.