How to check for nasal polyps?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 23, 2024
00:00
00:00

Nasal polyps are common and frequently occurring clinical conditions. They are benign neoplasms found in the nasal cavity or sinus cavity. Visually, they appear as semi-translucent, half-peeled lychee-shaped tumors. For their examination, initially, an anterior rhinoscopy is carried out to observe the nasal polyps. Following that, an endoscopic examination of the nose is performed. Additionally, a sinus CT scan can be used to assess the extent and origin of the nasal polyps. Post-surgery, the nasal polyp tissue can be sent for pathological biopsy to examine the cell types. These are the main methods of examination for nasal polyps.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
56sec home-news-image

How to treat nasal polyps?

The treatment of nasal polyps mainly centers on surgical intervention as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy, due to the variety of causes and factors leading to the condition. Moreover, some nasal polyps are prone to recurrence. The first choice is surgical treatment, which involves thoroughly clearing the nasal polyps and then addressing any anatomical and inflammatory factors that may cause them. For example, correcting a deviated nasal septum, opening the sinuses, and relieving chronic sinus inflammation. Postoperatively, it is crucial to actively provide hormonal treatment, including nasal and oral steroids, tailored to the individual's needs. Concurrently, it is important to maintain nasal irrigation and regular follow-up cleanings. Postoperative pathological results help assess the likelihood of recurrence, and for types prone to recurrence, intensified follow-up measures are necessary.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
51sec home-news-image

Can nasal polyps be seen with the naked eye?

Nasal polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological disease with a high incidence rate clinically. The symptoms are numerous and may include nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, headache, and dizziness. For some patients, the polyps can be seen with the naked eye during examination, especially if there are many polyps or if they are located near the front of the nose. Generally, after using an anterior rhinoscope to widen the nostrils, the polyps can be seen. However, in some cases, the polyps grow in hidden areas, such as in the olfactory region or within the sinuses, making them difficult to detect with the naked eye. In such cases, a nasopharyngoscopy or sinus CT scan can be performed for more accurate diagnosis.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
52sec home-news-image

Are nasal polyps serious?

Overall, it is generally not very severe. Most patients with nasal polyps have localized conditions, which may be accompanied by clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, headaches, and dizziness. Initially, a nasopharyngoscopy is required to determine the specific range of the polyps and clarify if there are any other pathologic conditions. If the diseased area is extensive, further nasal sinus CT scans may be needed to determine if there are any abnormalities in the sinuses. In terms of treatment, conservative treatment is recommended for patients with small polyps and non-significant symptoms. However, if the polyps are numerous and there are notable clinical symptoms, surgical removal should be considered. After surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor the recovery situation.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
39sec home-news-image

Can nasal polyps be felt by touch?

Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms that occur in our nasal cavity. Clinically, nasal polyps in their early stages are primarily located in the middle nasal passage. As the nasal polyps enlarge, they can also be found in the middle nasal passage, and severe ones might even protrude from our anterior nostrils onto our face. Thus, for larger nasal polyps, we can physically feel them; they feel very soft and not very elastic. However, they are somewhat resilient and can move significantly because most nasal polyps are pedunculated within our nasal cavity. Additionally, there is often a lot of nasal mucus.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
39sec home-news-image

Do you need to be hospitalized for nasal polyp surgery?

The current nasal polyp surgery requires a general anesthesia and endoscopic nasal polypectomy. Since the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, more thorough preparations are made for hospitalized patients. The surgery demands high standards, thus preoperative blood tests and related cardiopulmonary function tests are necessary, requiring hospitalization. Additionally, after the surgery, nasal packing is needed to monitor the patient's recovery and to clean the nasal cavities and sinuses. Therefore, hospitalization is needed for this type of treatment, which generally lasts from 5 to 7 days from admission to discharge.