Progression of Nasal Polyps Symptoms and Complications
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps may negatively affect sleep. This can contribute to daytime sleepiness and possibly sleep apnea, which is a sleep disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep.
Getting treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps may help improve sleep. Sometimes a person’s doctor may refer them to a sleep specialist to address other factors that might be affecting their sleep.
Nasal polyps may reduce a person’s sense of smell. This is known as hyposmia.
Hyposmia can reduce someone’s ability to detect the full flavor of food, which can make meals less enjoyable. This may negatively affect a person's diet and nutrition. It can also become a safety issue, such as affecting a person's ability to tell when food has spoiled or sense a gas leak.
Getting treatment for nasal polyps is important for preventing hyposmia.
Nasal polyps may cause postnasal drip, or the feeling of mucus draining into the back of the throat. Symptoms include hoarseness, sore throat, and the urge to cough or clear the throat.
Following a doctor’s prescribed treatment, which may include steroid irrigation or a nasal steroid spray, may reduce postnasal drip. Drinking more fluids, using a humidifier, or using a saline nasal spray or neti pot can also help thin or clear mucus.
Nasal congestion
It is possible for nasal polyps to recur — or grow — back after treatment.
A doctor may treat recurring nasal polyps by removing them surgically and then placing a medication-coated device known as a stent in the sinuses. This device slowly releases medication over many weeks to treat nasal polyps.
However, recurrence is still common, even after surgery. That is why long-term management of the underlying causes of CRS is important.
Symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps may negatively affect someone's ability to concentrate or their mood. They may feel frustration, sadness, or self-consciousness about symptoms. Some people develop anxiety or depression.
Getting treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps may benefit quality of life and mental well-being. A doctor may also refer someone to a mental health specialist for support.
Nasal congestion is a common symptom of nasal polyps. It involves a runny or stuffy nose, which can make it harder to breathe.
A doctor may prescribe medication to treat nasal congestion. Rinsing the nasal passages with salt water using a saline nasal spray or neti pot may also help. A neti pot is a device that someone can use to pour water with salt into their nostrils. It is important to use sterile, distilled, or boiled and cooled water.
Postnasal drip
Reduced sense of smell
Sleep challenges
Mental health challenges
Recurrence
