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Nasal Polyps |
Nasal PolypsNasal polyps are a result of inflammation of the sinuses.
Nasal polyps are benign growths, that are soft and is seen to occur in the inner nasal lining. They are pearl colored and feels like a jelly. Breathing difficulties and running nose are common symptoms. The individual experiences problem in their olfactory function. Sinus infection and allergies are the commonly blamed factors, thereby nasal polyps remain unidentified.
Smaller polyps are devoid of any problem-causing conditions. Large nasal polyps result in allergic rhinitis, snoring and headaches. Substantially bigger polyps change the structure of the face.
The cause of the inflammation is still to be researched. Nasal polyps are seen to occur more in the 40s and in asthmatics.
Individuals and children with hay fever, cystic fibrosis and sinus infection are at increased risk to nasal polyps. Polyps are capable of recurrence and hence surgery is suggested. Smaller nasal polyps call for medications for their treatment. Small polyps are tolerable and are devoid of any complications. Large polyps block the respiratory pathway, resulting in breathing problems, such as, breathing through the mouth.
Typical symptoms of nasal polyps include stuffiness, which is persistent for some time.
Decrease in the sense of smell is common. Nasal polyps are not a disease and are seen to occur, especially in the four cavities near the nose, the sinuses. They are the final points of the inflammatory processes, which is a result of microbial infections or allergies. The blood vessels in the nasal lining are more permeable and help in the diffusion and thereby, the accumulation of water in the cells. Gravitational pull from the water stagnant cells causes the formation of polyps.
Nasal polyps are seen in individuals suffering from sinusitis, Churg-Strauss syndrome and cystic fibrosis, as they result in swelling.
A rare disease, Churg-Strauss syndrome results in vasculitis or inflammation of the blood vessels. More commonly seen in people greater than 40years, corticosteroids are prescribed as a form of intervention. Nasal sprays are provided, at times in combination with corticosteroids. People who are sensitive to non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and aspirin are more prone to nasal polyps.
Reading the label of the medicines is vital, as most of the medications contain aspirin.
Asthmatics with nasal polyps should refrain from aspirin related medicines, as it aggravates the situation and causes loss of breath. Polypectomy and endoscopic sinus surgery are surgical procedures to treat nasal polyps. Avoidance of indoor and outdoor pollutants to a possible extent minimizes the polyps’ occurrence. Monitoring and managing symptoms of asthma is helpful in preventing polyps. |
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