Nasal Polyps

Category

Nasal Polyps

Sino-Nasal Polyposis (Nasal Polyps)

A Patient Information Guide

By Dr Dilpreet Bajwa – ENT & Cochlear Implant Surgeon

Many patients come with persistent nasal blockage, reduced smell, facial heaviness, or repeated sinus infections. One common reason behind these symptoms is Sino-Nasal Polyposis, also known as nasal polyps.

Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous swellings that develop inside the nose and sinuses due to long-term inflammation. They can gradually grow in size and cause symptoms such as nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through the nose, reduced sense of smell, snoring, and recurrent sinus infections. Many patients often feel as if they have a “constant cold” that does not improve completely with regular medications. Nasal polyps are commonly associated with allergies, sinusitis, asthma, and dust sensitivity. Although they are usually not dangerous, they can significantly affect sleep, breathing, and quality of life if left untreated. Early evaluation and proper treatment can help improve symptoms and prevent progression of the disease.

My Approach as an ENT Surgeon

Sino-nasal polyps are very common but recurring issues which may deeply affects one quality of life.

My goal is not only to remove polyps but also to identify and control the underlying inflammation causing the disease. Treatment is individualized for every patient.

 

What Are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous swellings that develop inside the nose and sinuses due to chronic inflammation of skin lining inside our  nasal sinuses.

Common Causes

Nasal polyps are commonly associated with allergies, chronic sinusitis, asthma, recurrent infections, dust sensitivity, and inflammatory conditions.

Common Symptoms

Patients may experience nasal blockage, mouth breathing, snoring, reduced smell, post-nasal drip, headaches, facial pressure, and disturbed sleep.

When Should You Consult an ENT Specialist?

You should seek evaluation if nasal blockage persists for weeks, smell sensation decreases, sinus infections recur, or symptoms interfere with sleep and daily activities.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include ENT examination, nasal endoscopy, and CT scan of the sinuses to assess the extent of disease and treatment planning.

Can Nasal Polyps Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes. Treatment may include nasal steroid sprays, saline rinses, anti-allergy medications, and short courses of oral steroids in selected patients. However, recurrent courses of oral steroids is not recommended as it may have other undesired effects.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery may be advised if medications are insufficient, polyps are large, smell loss is significant, or recurrent infections continue.

What Is Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)?

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive surgery performed through the nose using endoscopic instruments without external cuts or scars.

Can Polyps Recur?

Yes. Nasal polyps can recur because the underlying inflammatory tendency may persist. Long-term follow-up and medical therapy are important.

Recovery After Surgery

Most patients recover quickly and notice gradual improvement in breathing, sleep, and smell over time.

Consultation & Evaluation

Dr Dilpreet Bajwa
ENT, Allergy, Sinus & Endoscopic Skull Base Specialist

Comprehensive Evaluation Includes:

• ENT Examination
• Nasal Endoscopy
• Allergy Assessment
• CT Sinus Review
• Medical & Surgical Treatment Planning

Better Breathing. Better Sleep. Better Quality of Life.