How Nasal Polyps Affect Breathing and Sinus Health
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. While they are typically painless, their size and location can interfere with normal airflow and sinus function, leading to ongoing discomfort and health concerns.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps form when chronic inflammation causes the mucous membranes inside the nose or sinuses to swell. Over time, this swelling can create tear-shaped growths that may range from barely noticeable to large enough to block the nasal passages completely.
These growths often develop in people with long-term sinus inflammation, such as those with chronic sinusitis, allergies, asthma, or sensitivity to aspirin.
How They Affect Breathing
When nasal polyps block airflow through the nasal passages, you may experience:
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Difficulty breathing through the nose, especially at night
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Frequent mouth breathing, which can dry out the mouth and throat
Even small polyps can make breathing feel labored, and larger ones can cause complete obstruction on one or both sides of the nose.
Impact on Sinus Health
Nasal polyps can also disrupt the natural drainage of the sinuses. When mucus can’t flow out properly, it becomes trapped, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and viruses to grow. This can lead to:
- Recurrent or chronic sinus infections
- Increased facial pressure and headaches
- Post-nasal drip and throat irritation
Over time, untreated nasal polyps may worsen sinus inflammation, creating a cycle of congestion and infection that is difficult to break without medical intervention.
Treatment Options
The approach to treating nasal polyps depends on their size, cause, and how much they interfere with breathing. Options may include:
- Medications: Nasal corticosteroid sprays or oral steroids to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps.
- Treatment of underlying conditions: Managing allergies, asthma, or chronic sinusitis to prevent regrowth.
- Surgical removal: Endoscopic sinus surgery can remove large or resistant polyps and restore normal airflow.
Because nasal polyps often come back, long-term management usually involves treating the underlying inflammation and monitoring for recurrence.
When to Seek Help
If you have ongoing nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, or a reduced sense of smell that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, it’s worth getting evaluated by a medical professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can help restore healthy breathing, protect sinus function, and prevent recurring infections.
