Can nasal polyps disappear on their own?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on June 26, 2025
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Nasal polyps may disappear on their own, but overall, this possibility is very small. If the nasal polyps are particularly small and localized, in the early stages of the disease, they may shrink on their own if the body's immune response is strong and the nasal cavity maintains normal ventilation and drainage. However, overall, the likelihood of spontaneous regression is very low. Most nasal polyps, without timely treatment and intervention, tend to gradually increase in size, and can easily cause nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, and may even trigger sinusitis, leading to headaches, dizziness, and thick nasal discharge. Therefore, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for a formal assessment and timely treatment after discovering nasal polyps, and then observe the effects.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Which nasal polyp spray is effective?

Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms in the nasal area, clinically manifesting as semi-opaque, lychee-shaped neoplasms. The main clinical treatment for nasal polyps includes comprehensive treatment primarily focused on surgery. In the early stages of nasal polyps, nasal sprays can be administered for treatment, primarily involving corticosteroid nasal hormones such as mometasone furoate nasal spray and fluticasone propionate nasal spray, among other nasal medications. These medications are all nasal corticosteroid hormones, and their effects are more or less the same. Clinically, no one medication is particularly more effective than another, so any of these treatments can be chosen. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What is the best treatment for nasal polyps?

The treatment of nasal polyps largely depends on the size of the polyps. For very small polyps that do not present significant clinical symptoms, it is possible to consider observation and treatment using nasal spray medications. Some patients may find that the polyps gradually shrink after treatment. However, if the nasal polyps are large and accompanied by clear clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and reduced sense of smell, medication treatment can be attempted to see its effectiveness. Yet, many patients do not achieve satisfactory results with medication alone and may need to consider surgical removal. Currently, the main approach is endoscopic nasal polyp removal. Regular follow-ups are also necessary to monitor recovery and check for any recurrence.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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How to check for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are benign space-occupying lesions that occur in the nasal cavity and sinus cavities. There are several aspects to the examination of nasal polyps: Firstly, an anterior rhinoscopy examination can be performed. If the nasal polyps are large, or even protruding outside the nasal cavity, they can be directly seen. Anterior rhinoscopy enlarges the nasal cavity, allowing visualization of the middle nasal meatus and other tissues inside the nasal cavity. Secondly, a nasal endoscopy can be utilized. Nasal endoscopy is particularly effective for viewing polyps located deeper within, or at the back of the nasal passages, providing very clear visibility. Other examinations, such as electronic rhinoendoscopy, follow the same procedure. The third examination involves a sinus CT scan, which is helpful for identifying the origin of the nasal polyps, as well as the location, range, and extent of obstruction caused by the polyps. Another examination is the pathological examination after nasal polyp surgery, which aids in determining the origin and risk associated with the nasal polyps, as well as assisting in subsequent treatments.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should I do if nasal polyps are bleeding?

Nasal polyps accompanied by nasal bleeding can be caused by various reasons. It could possibly be hemorrhagic nasal polyps, or there might be dryness and erosion bleeding of the nasal mucosa, or bleeding due to rupture of small blood vessels, or inflammation-induced bleeding. Therefore, in such cases, it is necessary to promptly visit an otolaryngology department. Consider conducting a nasal endoscopy, routine blood tests, and coagulation function tests, which can help determine the severity of the nasal polyps and the cause of the nasal bleeding. If the extent of nasal bleeding is severe and the nasal polyps are widespread, surgical removal might be considered necessary. After surgery, regular follow-up checks are essential to monitor the recovery process.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal polyps be cured?

Nasal polyps are a relatively common disease and are benign neoplasms in the nasal cavity. Overall, the treatment results are quite good. In terms of treatment, there are mainly two categories: surgical treatment and conservative medical treatment. Surgical treatment is mainly suitable for cases where nasal polyps are extensive and widespread, and where conservative treatment has been ineffective. In such cases, surgery to remove the polyps is generally recommended. Currently, endoscopic sinus surgery is commonly performed to remove nasal polyps, and if accompanied by sinusitis, concomitant sinusotomy can also be performed. Overall, the surgical outcomes are quite definitive, and the procedure involves minimal trauma and offers a faster recovery. If the extent of nasal polyps is small and localized, without significant clinical symptoms, most cases can consider a combination of medical treatment and nasal irrigation. However, both medical and surgical treatments may have ineffective results or the possibility of disease recurrence. Therefore, after treatment, long-term regular check-ups are necessary to monitor for recurrence, and further treatment will be needed promptly if recurrence occurs.