Conservative treatment methods for nasal polyps

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on February 16, 2025
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Conservative treatment for nasal polyps is mainly applicable to cases with smaller range and less severe symptoms. Generally, it is advisable to begin with some nasal endoscopy to assess the extent of the condition. The primary treatment method considered is nasal sprays, particularly corticosteroid nasal sprays, and additionally, physiological saline can be used to cleanse the nasal cavity.

If accompanied by rhinitis and sinusitis, it may also be necessary to consider treatment with oral medication. Overall, most patients see some effectiveness with conservative treatment, but there may be recurrence or cases where conservative treatment is not effective, and surgery might be considered as an option.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are benign tumors that occur inside the nasal cavity. Generally, the appearance of nasal polyps is associated with chronic inflammatory stimulation, repeated irritation of the turbinate mucosa leading to congestion, edema, prolapse, and hyperplasia of the turbinate mucosa, which causes nasal polyps. They are also often secondary to allergic rhinitis. Nasal polyps can cause bilateral nasal congestion in patients, which tends to persist and worsen, while mucous secretions may also flow from the nasal cavity. In severe cases, patients may experience facial swelling, pain, headaches, and other related symptoms. During examination, pale white lychee-like, soft new growths that are usually painless can be found inside the nasal cavity. In terms of treatment, nasal polyps require endoscopic nasal polypectomy. The surgery requires hospitalization, general anesthesia, and postoperative antibiotics to prevent local infection. Patients can usually recover and be discharged about a week after the surgery. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal polyps heal by themselves?

There is a possibility of spontaneous healing for nasal polyps, but this possibility is relatively low. For cases with fewer polyps, conservative treatment with medication is generally recommended, commonly involving spray medications, along with saline nasal irrigation. However, it is necessary to regularly re-examine and observe the treatment results. If there are many polyps and the results of conservative treatment are not satisfactory, then surgical removal may be required. Currently, the common practice is to remove nasal polyps via endoscopic surgery, which is a minimally invasive procedure with generally good overall results, less damage, and shorter recovery time. However, regular follow-up is required as some patients may experience recurrence after the surgery.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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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.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Do nasal polyps have to be surgically removed?

Nasal polyps are common in otolaryngology and frequently recurring. If a patient with nasal polyps does not exhibit significant symptoms, they can be managed with observation and the targeted use of local anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the growth and enlargement of the polyps. If the patient experiences significant symptoms such as bilateral nasal obstruction, pus discharge, or headaches linked to the condition, surgery should be considered. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery can be performed under video guidance to thoroughly remove the affected mucosa and polypoid tissue in the nasal cavity, thereby curing the patient. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
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Is there a high possibility that nasal polyps are malignant?

Nasal polyps are a type of benign neoplasm in the nasal cavity, appearing as half a lychee, translucent, and either oval or ovoid in shape. They occupy the normal passages of the nasal cavity, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, and even headaches in the head or forehead area. Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms and rarely develop into malignant lesions. Clinically, there have been no cases seen where nasal polyps have turned malignant. Some growths that look like nasal polyps may actually be nasal papillomas, which are more prone to malignancy. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with nasal polyps undergo early surgical intervention followed by a pathological examination to differentiate them from nasal papillomas and to assess the prognosis of the condition.