Nasal Polyps in Plano, TX
If you’ve been struggling with chronic nasal congestion, sinus pressure, or difficulty breathing, nasal polyps may be the underlying cause. Kevin Lunde provides expert diagnosis and treatment for nasal polyps in Plano, helping patients find long-term relief and improved breathing. Call to schedule an appointment.
Nasal polyps are noncancerous (benign) growths that develop within the nasal passages or sinuses, often as a result of ongoing inflammation from allergies, asthma, or chronic sinus infections. While small polyps may go unnoticed, larger growths can obstruct airflow, leading to persistent congestion, reduced sense of smell, and recurring sinus issues.
Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are often ignored due to the fact that their symptoms are similar to the common cold or allergies. Symptoms often include:
- Sinus pressure
- Runny nose
- Decreased sensitivity to taste and smell
- Chronic sinus headaches
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Facial pain
- Asthmatic symptoms
Causes of Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are created from the inflammation in the mucous membrane within the sinus. The inflammation is caused from any irritation of the sinus such as allergies, blowing or wiping your nose, colds, and the flu.
Physicians believe that the reason nasal polyps develop in some people but not others is because of the immune system’s response and genetic chemical makeup of the mucous membrane.
Risk Factors of Nasal Polyps
Though nasal polyps are possible in everyone, they most commonly form in people with:
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Allergic fungal sinusitis
- Sinusitis (chronic sinus infections)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Asthma
- Family history of nasal polyps
Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps
There are a number of treatment options for nasal polyps that a physician will prescribe, such as:
Medications
Physicians may prescribe medications to control the underlying causes of nasal polyps before taking further measures.
- Corticosteroid nasal spray (Flonase, Nasonex)
- Oral corticosteroids (Presdnisone) for severe cases
- Antihistamines and decongestants for minor cases
Surgery
Endoscopic procedures are normally performed for nasal polyps. The physician will use a small nasal telescope that can precisely remove nasal polyps while avoiding damaging tissue.
Surgery is only performed for more severe cases of nasal polyps or when medication is not effective. Ongoing medication may be needed after the procedure for patients with certain conditions such as asthma or other sensitivities.
