Nasal Polyposis Treatment in San Francisco, CA
Nasal polyps are benign tumors that grow in your nasal passages. They are often a side effect of another health condition like allergies or an infection
If the polyps grow large enough, they can cause a blockage in your airways.
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
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
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.
Schedule a Nasal Polyps Consultation
For more information regarding nasal polyps, call San Francisco Allergy, Asthma & Immunology at (415) 362-2614 to schedule an appointment.
