Nasal polyps are non-cancerous, soft, and often painless tissue growth in the lining of the nose. Polyps grow in groups or on their own and vary in sizes. Large clusters formed in the nose eventually cause breathing issues and the sense of smell. People who have asthma, frequent sinus infections, or allergies are more likely to get associated with nasal polyps. There are two treatment options for nasal polyps: medical and surgical. Let’s take a look at both:

Nasal corticosteroids
This is the first line of treatment prescribed by mostly all doctors. It is in spray form and reduces or shrinks the polyps by lowering inflammation. If an individual has one or multiple small polyps, this treatment is commonly suggested. Side effects like sore throat, headache, or nosebleeds can occur in some patients.

Steroid tablets
Doctors can suggest taking an oral medication, too, if there is severe inflammation or nasal polyps are larger. Sometimes a combination of both spray and tablets for a faster cure. Tablets are more effective at shrinking polyps, but they are not preferred since there is a higher risk of side effects like weight gain. Therefore they are only given for a short duration.

Antihistamines and decongestants
If the patient is allergic, then the doctor may prescribe antihistamines or decongestants. This medication will bring down the allergic inflammation level of the sinus and the nose but does not directly address the problem of nasal polyps. However, it eventually does lower nasal growth with time.

Nasal polypectomy
This one of the most common surgical treatment options for nasal polyps. Patients are first given a dose of a general anesthetic. Then, a lengthy, narrow tube with a small video camera is inserted in the nose and sinus to gauge the exact location and size. With the help of surgical instruments and a micro-telescope, the nasal polyps are cut. At times, the surgeon may remove tiny pieces of bones from the nose to open the nasal passageway.

Balloon sinuplasty procedure
In this surgery, a small catheter in the shape of a balloon is inserted into the nose to diagnose the location and treat the sinus cavity. Then the balloon is slowly inflated to expand the opening of the sinus passageway. This procedure restructures the passage, which makes it easy for the sinus to drain. A saline solution is sprayed into the cavity to withdraw any mucus or pus build-up.

Nasal turbinate surgery
This surgery aims to reduce the size of turbinates or remove them. It is often performed in combination with the above-mentioned surgeries. A nasal endoscope that has a camera is inserted through the nostrils. Then the surgeon uses instruments to remove turbinates and other tissues or bones, depending on the severity of the problem.