Does nasal polyp hypertrophy require surgery?

Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

Updated on October 29, 2024

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The treatment methods for nasal polyps are mainly divided into two categories. The first category is surgical treatment, and the second category is conservative medical treatment. If the nasal polyps are relatively small and the clinical symptoms are not very obvious, conservative medical treatment should be considered first. Common treatments include nasal spray medications and saline nasal irrigation. If accompanied by rhinitis or sinusitis, oral medications may be considered. If the extent of the nasal polyps is large and the clinical symptoms are clear, and if the results from medication are not good, surgery may need to be considered. After surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary to observe the recovery.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu

Otolaryngology

1min 8sec

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Postoperative precautions for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are a common disease in otolaryngology, head, and neck surgery. The primary treatment for nasal polyps is functional endoscopic surgery to remove them. After the surgery, it is important to keep the following in mind: First, it is important to keep the nasal cavity clean. Clean the nasal cavity daily with saline solution and use some medications for treatment. Second, regularly visit the hospital to have the nasal cavity cleaned by the surgeon who performed the operation. Typically, the surgeon will instruct when to return for a follow-up visit, or schedule an appointment. Third, for nasal polyps, surgery is not the end of the treatment. It is generally necessary to continue daily medicinal treatment of the nasal cavity. Immediately after the surgery, it may also be necessary to take anti-inflammatory medications, such as roxithromycin or clarithromycin, for treatment. In summary, treatment and nasal cavity cleaning must continue even after surgery for nasal polyps. (Note: Please use medications under the guidance of a clinical doctor.)

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Written by Deng Bang Yu

Otolaryngology

42sec

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How to check for nasal polyps?

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.

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Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

48sec

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Can nasal polyps heal by themselves?

Nasal polyps can potentially heal on their own, but overall, this possibility is relatively small. Once nasal polyps form, they often progressively increase in number and spread in size. Generally, after the onset of the condition, it is necessary to take targeted treatment measures as soon as possible. If the affected area is relatively mild and the clinical symptoms are not particularly severe, conservative treatment methods may be considered initially. These usually involve the use of nasal sprays and oral medications, along with nasal irrigation. Most patients can still achieve effective control with these methods. If the area is already quite extensive and the response to medication is poor, then surgery may need to be considered. (The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui

Otolaryngology

52sec

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What are the symptoms of nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps currently exhibit a variety of symptoms, which should be considered comprehensively based on individual reactions and the condition itself. If the polyps are localized and small, they might not show any clinical symptoms. In such cases, a nasopharyngoscope examination can be used for diagnosis. If there are multiple polyps or if the polyps are located in special positions, they might cause clinical symptoms such as poor nasal ventilation, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, headache, and dizziness. Some patients might experience changes in vision or facial swelling, numbness, and headaches due to accompanying sinusitis or other sinonasal disorders. Overall, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngology clinic for a nasopharyngoscope examination to make a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis.

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Written by Li Mao Cai

Otolaryngology

54sec

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What will happen if nasal polyps are not operated on?

Nasal polyps are a common pathological change in otolaryngology, mainly caused by chronic inflammatory stimuli such as rhinitis and sinusitis, leading to changes in the nasal mucosa. Nasal polyps are an abnormal structural change. Once nasal polyps occur, emergency surgical treatment is recommended. If surgery is not performed, the polyps will continue to grow larger, altering some of the anatomical structures of the nasal cavity and occupying space, which can impair nasal function. This may lead to nasal congestion, a decrease in the sense of smell, and changes in the external nose, such as a "frog-like" nose; the nose becomes swollen and large, resembling a frog. Over time, due to poor nasal ventilation, this can cause headaches, a heavy head, and other uncomfortable symptoms, therefore urgent surgical treatment is advised.