Nasal polyps are small, grapelike, noncancerous growths that form in the nose or sinuses. They block normal drainage from the nasal and sinus passages, triggering breathing problems and sinus infections.
Though many times the cause is hidden; in general, nasal polyps are caused by inflammation from chronic sinus infections, asthma, nasal allergies, and aspirin allergy.
Most people with nasal polyps have similar symptoms as those with short-term sinus infections that can go away without treatment: stuffy nose, nasal discharge, pressure in the face, headache, postnasal drip, and a lack of sense of smell.
There are several signs that may actually indicate polyps: a reduced sense of smell, more severe symptoms overall, and the presence of other conditions, like allergies and asthma.
Here are 4 ways to help prevent nasal polyps:
Talk to a specialist about immunotherapy or allergy shots to control your allergies.
Avoid breathing airborne allergens that may lead to inflammation of your nose.
Use saltwater rinses and nasal sprays.
Use a nasal corticosteroid spray.
In many cases, that can reduce the size of nasal polyps. Talk to a specialist, if you’re not sure whether you have nasal polyps or a short-term bacterial sinus infection. Diagnosing you have nasal polyps is the first step to finding relief.
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