Nasal polyps are benign, noncancerous growths that appear on the lining of the sinuses or nasal passages. They have a grape-like appearance and are often caused due to inflammation from recurring allergies, asthma, or drug sensitivity. Nasal polyps can impact anyone, but they are most common in adults. Fortunately, medications can help relieve the condition. But sometimes, doctors recommend surgery. Here, we will discuss the types, signs, treatments, and prevention of nasal polyps.

1. Types of nasal polyps
There are two forms of nasal polyps, as discussed below:

• Bilateral ethmoidal
  These nasal polyps occur due to the ethmoid sinus that extends through the nasal cavity. They are usually smaller and appear in groups.

• Antrochoanal polyps
  These originate in the maxillary sinuses and extend to the nasopharynx. However, they are rare, less common, and make up only around six percent of all nasal polyps cases.

2. Signs of nasal polyps

• Nose blockage
  Patients who have nasal polyps usually have a runny or blocked nose, accompanied by nasal congestion. Besides, one may also face difficulty breathing through their nose due to the blockage.

• Reduced sense of smell
  This is another common sign of the condition. Larger groups or growths of nasal polyps reduces the person’s ability to smell things normally.

• Postnasal drip
  Chronic inflammation caused due to nasal polyps may lead to postnasal drip. It is a condition where excess mucus runs down the back of the throat.

• Snoring
  In most cases, the polyps cause the nasal passages to become narrow, leading to snoring at night. Some people may also complain of sleep apnea.

• Double vision
  In severe cases of nasal polyps, patients experience cystic fibrosis or fungal sinusitis that can cause double vision.

3. Prevention of nasal polyps
The best way to avoid the condition is by eliminating allergens from the immediate environment. One can also take anti-inflammatory medicines, such as nasal sprays, to keep the growths from forming. If unsure, one should talk to a doctor about the best ways to prevent the occurrence and recurrence of nasal polyps.

4. Treatment options
Small growths can be easily treated with nasal sprays formulated from corticosteroids. These medicines shrink the polyps and prevent their recurrence. Large polyps, however, need to be removed surgically, especially if they do not respond to the treatment. In most cases, surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure. The surgeon performs the surgery using an endoscope. For unilateral polyps, doctors perform a biopsy to ensure that they are noncancerous.

People with nasal polyps can find relief with the help of allergy treatments and medication. Only when all of these fail, the nasal polyps are removed surgically. So, it is vital to know the types and signs of nasal polyps to help the doctor choose the right treatment option.