Nasal polyps are sac-like growths in the nasal passages, which is the area of the nose that extends from the nostrils up into the nose. These growths are not cancerous or harmful, but they may lead to problems such as if they become enlarged or if they obstruct the nasal passage. Small polyps may cause no symptoms at all, while large polyps may block drainage and lead to infection. Anyone can have nasal polyps, but they are more common in men and in people over age 40. Children who have nasal polyps should be screened for cystic fibrosis, as nasal polyps are a common finding in this disease. Risk factors for nasal polyps are asthma, sinus infections, presence of a foreign object in the nose, and allergic rhinitis (runny nose caused by allergies).
Symptoms of nasal polyps include nasal congestion, a runny nose, snoring, pain in the upper teeth or face, sneezing, loss of smell (anosmia), reduced sense of smell (hyposmia), itching around the eyes, headache, or infections. Nasal polyps can be diagnosed with a nasal endoscope, which is a lighted tube that is used to look up the nose. Treatment can include medications, such as nasal sprays and allergy medications, or surgery. If you have nasal polyps, talk to your doctor about the most current treatment options.