Can nasal polyps cause breathing difficulties?

Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
Updated on May 11, 2025
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Nasal polyps can cause breathing difficulties in patients. They primarily lead to persistent nasal congestion, which in turn causes breathing difficulties. Nasal polyps are benign tumors in the nasal cavity. They are directly related to prolonged chronic inflammation, recurrent episodes of allergic rhinitis, and are manifestations of congested, edematous, and proliferative nasal turbinates mucosa that eventually prolapse. This condition causes persistent bilateral nasal congestion in patients, who may also experience facial swelling, pain, and headaches. If a local infection and rupture occur, it could lead to nasal bleeding, necessitating a detailed examination at a hospital. Diagnoses can be confirmed through an endoscopic nasal examination and sinus CT scans. For treatment, nasal polyps require surgical removal, which can be curative. Additionally, regular follow-up examinations are necessary after surgery to prevent recurrence.

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Can nasal polyps be treated with laser?

Nasal polyps are benign neoplasms of the nasal cavity or sinus cavity. The current treatments for nasal polyps include medication and endoscopic surgical removal. Clinically, lasers like the CO2 laser are primarily suited for precise operations. Nasal polyps are generally quite large, so lasers are typically not used for their treatment. Clinically, a suction cutter is mainly used to remove nasal polyps. Previously, when less advanced and without suction cutters, lasers might have been attempted, but now lasers are basically no longer used for treatment because their indications do not align with those for nasal polyps.

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Can erythromycin be used for nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological (ENT) disease. In terms of medication, if it's just simple nasal polyps, it is not advisable to use erythromycin. This is because erythromycin is a common type of antibiotic, primarily used for treating bacterial infections. However, if the nasal polyps are accompanied by sinusitis, then the use of erythromycin could be considered. For patients with nasal polyps, it is necessary to visit an ENT specialist after the onset of the condition. By conducting examinations such as nasal endoscopy, sinus CT scans, and routine blood tests, the severity of the condition can be assessed, thereby facilitating targeted treatment. During the treatment process, regular follow-ups are needed to observe the specific effects of the treatment.

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Written by Li Rui
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What should I do if nasal polyps keep recurring?

Nasal polyps are a relatively common ENT disorder, and some patients may experience recurrent episodes. This situation is mainly seen in patients with nasal polyps who have an increase in eosinophils or those with accompanying allergic rhinitis. The likelihood of recurrence varies individually. After a recurrence, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist. A nasal endoscopy or a sinus CT scan can be done to assess the severity of the recurrence. Some patients may opt for conservative medical treatment, commonly using nasal spray medications. Additionally, rinsing the nasal cavity with saline solution can be helpful. If the nasal polyps recur severely and conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical removal may be necessary. (Please use medication under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
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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 Li Rui
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What will happen if nasal polyps are not treated?

The consequences of untreated nasal polyps vary among individuals. For some, the effects may be relatively severe, while for others it may not be very noticeable. It primarily depends on the size of the nasal polyps themselves. If the polyps are small and do not cause significant clinical symptoms, even without prompt treatment, their slow growth may lead to no significant symptoms. However, if there are many polyps and they grow rapidly, it can easily lead to nasal congestion, a runny nose, and reduced sense of smell. Some patients may also develop sinusitis due to poor ventilation and drainage in the nasal cavity. In severe cases where there are excessive amounts of nasal polyps, it can even affect the development of the nasal structure, leading to conditions like a crooked nose or saddle nose.