What are the treatment methods for nasal polyps besides surgery?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on May 10, 2025
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Nasal polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological disease. The treatment methods are mainly divided into two major categories. The first category is surgical treatment, and the second is conservative treatment. Those who prefer not to undergo surgery should undergo nasopharyngoscopic examination to assess the specific extent of the lesion. If the lesion is relatively localized and the clinical symptoms are not particularly significant, conservative pharmaceutical treatment can be considered. Common medications include nasal spray drugs, and oral medications may also be considered. It is also recommended to rinse the nasal cavity with saline solution. However, regular reviews are necessary to dynamically observe changes in the nasal polyps. If the condition is severe and the symptoms of blockage are quite apparent, surgery might be required. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal polyps cause headaches?

Nasal polyps can cause headaches. The exact cause of nasal polyps is unknown, but they are generally due to prolonged chronic inflammation that leads to congestion, swelling, proliferation, and prolapse of the nasal turbinates' mucous membrane, resulting in the appearance of polyps. They are also often secondary to allergic rhinitis. Nasal polyps cause persistent nasal congestion, which progressively worsens, leading to persistent hypoxia in patients. This can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and coughing. During examination, congested and swollen nasal mucosa can be found, and in the middle or general nasal passage, pale, abnormal, soft, painless neoplasms may be detected. In terms of treatment, nasal polyps require endoscopic nasal polypectomy and sinusotomy. After surgery, physical exercise and avoiding colds are necessary to prevent recurrence.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What will happen if nasal polyps worsen?

If nasal polyps deteriorate, it might lead to associated clinical symptoms, commonly including nasal congestion, runny nose, bloody nasal discharge, headaches, dizziness, and a reduced sense of smell. A small portion of patients may also experience malignant transformation. The specific clinical symptoms vary from individual to individual. After the onset of the condition, it is necessary to promptly visit an otolaryngology department. Undergoing a sinus CT and endoscopic examination can help assess the severity and extent of the condition. Regarding treatment, some patients may consider conservative medication treatment, but others with more severe conditions where the medication is ineffective might need to consider surgical treatment.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Will nasal polyps grow back after being removed?

Nasal polyps are a common and frequently occurring clinical condition, representing benign neoplasms of the nasal cavity. Currently, the primary treatment for nasal polyps is their removal via endoscopic surgery, generally accompanied by surgery to open the sinus cavities. After nasal polyp surgery, there is a certain rate of recurrence, so measures must be taken to reduce this recurrence, such as regular post-operative clinic visits to clean the nasal and sinus cavities. Additionally, aggressive medication treatments are required after surgery, such as the use of budesonide nasal spray, along with other supportive medications. During surgery, it is crucial to remove the roots of the nasal polyps as thoroughly as possible and also to remove the diseased mucosal tissues as much as feasible. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a clinical doctor, based on the specific circumstances.)

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
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Can nasal polyps sinusitis be cured completely?

Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of one or more groups of nasal sinuses, often accompanied by nasal polyps. Nasal polyps are lychee-like, semitransparent, grayish-white growths that are soft in texture and visible inside the nasal cavity. In such cases, it is advisable to consider functional endoscopic sinus surgery under general anesthesia and nasal endoscopy to remove the polyps and ethmoid sinuses. After the surgery, it is essential to perform regular cleaning, reduce inflammation, and provide antihistamine treatment, as sinusitis often leads to the recurrence of nasal polyps. Furthermore, allergens can also trigger the recurrence of nasal polyps. Therefore, after surgery, regular follow-ups, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine treatments are necessary. Generally, with such management, nasal polyps and sinusitis can be effectively cured.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to treat nasal polyps?

The treatment of nasal polyps is mainly divided into two categories. First, it is recommended to perform some nasal endoscopy and sinus CT scans. The main purpose is to determine the extent and severity of the nasal polyps, and to check for any sinusitis. If there are few nasal polyps and the sinus inflammation is mild, the clinical symptoms will generally not be particularly obvious in such cases. The first consideration is conservative treatment, mainly involving oral medications and nasal sprays, along with rinsing the nasal cavity with saline. Most patients can achieve effective control and relief. If nasal endoscopy and sinus CT scans confirm that the sinus inflammation is significant and the nasal polyps are extensive, surgery may be considered. Currently, the main procedure performed is endoscopic nasal polyp removal, which is a minimally invasive surgery and generally has precise effects. However, regular follow-ups are still needed to monitor for any recurrence of the condition. (Specific medication usage should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)