6 Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps
Different types of treatment is available for nasal polyps, including non-surgical and surgical options. Home treatment may also help prevent polyps from developing or growing larger.
The type of treatment recommended may depend on the size and number of polyps a patient has, and whether they interfere with breathing properly. In this article, we'll look at different treatment options for nasal polyps you can speak to your doctor about.
Non-surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment usually includes medication. Different classes of medication are available, which may help decrease the swelling and shrink the polyps. Medications may include:
1. Nasal Steroids
Nasal steroids are medications that treat inflammation. You spray the medication into the nostrils. Delivering the medication directly to the site of inflammation may reduce systemic side effects from steroids. Examples of nasal steroid sprays include:
- Fluticasone.
- Budesonide.
- Beclomethasone.
2. Oral Steroids
You take oral steroids by mouth, and they also target inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe oral steroids if a nasal polyp blocks the use of nasal sprays or instances of severe polyps. Steroids can cause side effects such as trouble sleeping, weight gain, and agitation. Because of the possible side effects, your physician may only prescribe oral steroids for a short time. Samples of oral steroids include:
- Prednisone.
- Betamethasone.
3. Biologic Medications
Biologic medicines work by targeting specific proteins or cells that decrease swelling and irritation. This type of medication may be an option for people who repeatedly develop nasal polyps. Examples of biologic medications approved to treat nasal polyps include:
- Dupilumab.
- Omalizumab.
- Mepolizumab.
4. Surgery
Doctors may also suggest surgery to treat nasal polyps if conservative treatment did not work. Additionally, your doctor may recommend surgery if polyps are large or leading to obstructive sleep apnea.
Different surgical options are available, depending on the size, number and location of the polyps and any additional sinus issues present. All of the procedures below are minimally invasive, which means the physician removes the polyp through the nostrils.
Surgical options include the following:
- Balloon sinuplasty. During this procedure, the surgeon threads a balloon through the nostril and into the sinus cavity. The physician slowly inflates the balloon to unblock the nasal passages and removes the nasal polyps.
- Polypectomy. This non-invasive procedure involves using small instruments inserted through the nose to grab and remove the polyp. This reduces the need for visible surgical incisions.
- Functional endoscopic sinus surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon also uses small instruments to remove the polyps. However, the surgeon may also remove damaged bone and disease tissues if they are obstructing the nasal passage.
Natural Treatment
Natural treatments for nasal polyps may be helpful to decrease swelling and prevent polyps from returning. In instances where large polyps develop, natural treatments alone may not be enough to provide relief. Natural treatments may include the following:
5. Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chemical found in hot peppers that give them their heat. It may help relieve inflammation and open up nasal passages. Studies remain limited on the effectiveness of capsaicin in treating nasal polyps. However, some small studies show it might be effective in relieving symptoms of nasal polyps. Individuals can take capsaicin orally as a supplement. Nasal sprays that contain capsaicin are also available.
6. Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation involves rinsing out the nasal cavity with a sterile solution. This nasal rinse may remove allergens that cause inflammation. By reducing inflammation, it may help prevent the future growth of polyps. Using a neti pot is one of the most common ways to perform nasal irrigation at home.
Research published in the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy indicated that nasal irrigation may play a role in decreasing inflammation due to allergic rhinitis. This may, in turn, help reduce the risk of nasal polyps from returning.
When to See a Doctor
It's helpful to see your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of nasal polyps that last longer than 10 days. You should also consider seeing a doctor if you develop any of the following:
- Continued runny nose or post-nasal drip.
- Pressure on your forehead or face.
- Changes in your sense of taste or smell.
- Worsening symptoms.
- Trouble breathing in through your nose.
- A sinus headache for several days.