Exploring Different Methods for Nasal Polyps Removal
Nasal polyps can lead to chronic nasal congestion, breathing difficulties and recurring infections. Thankfully, there are several effective methods for nasal polyps removal. They range from conservative treatment options, such as a nasal rinse or spray, to more invasive options, including endoscopic surgical procedures. In this article, we’ll explore common nasal polyps removal options so you can make an informed decision to improve your respiratory health.
Medications for Nasal Polyps
Nasal Spray
These nasal sprays (nasal sterpods) include Flonase (fluticasone), Rhinocort (budesonide), Nasonex (mometasone), Nasacort (triamcinolone), Beconase (beclomethasone) and Omnaris and Zetonna (ciclesonide). They are easy to use and commonly prescribed. They're used to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps over time.
Oral Steroids
In some cases, nasal polyps block nasal steroid sprays. In these cases, oral steroids, such as prednisone, may be used. Oral steroids are sometimes used before surgery to shrink nasal polyps. Due to the serious side effects that can occur with long-term oral steroid use, physicians usually only prescribe a short course of oral steroids.
Biologic Medications
These medications include Dupixent (dupilumab), Nucala (mepolizumab) and Xolair (omalizumab). These medications target specific cells or proteins that help to reduce swelling and irritation in the nasal passages and sinuses. These medications may also be used to prevent nasal polyps from recurring.
Saline Nasal Rinse
This rinse flushes out the nasal and sinus cavities to help manage nasal polyps.
Other Medications
Sometimes other medications can be prescribed. They include antihistamines and antibiotics, which can help treat conditions that cause long-term inflammation and swelling in the nose, such as allergies and infections.
Aspirin Desensitization
This treatment may be beneficial for individuals who have asthma and nasal polyps who react poorly to aspirin. This treatment involves taking aspirin in increasing small doses to allow your body to get used to aspirin.
Surgical Treatment for Nasal Polyps
If conservative treatment options do not help with nasal polyps removal, endoscopic surgery may be recommended to remove polyps and fix sinus problems that can lead to nasal polyps.
Endoscopic surgery involves placing a small tube with a lighted lens and tiny camera (endoscope) through your nostrils into the sinuses.
A polypectomy involves using tiny tools, including surgical scissors or snares, to remove the polyps. Another endoscopic procedure is a functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) that involves using small tools to remove polyps, diseased tissue or damaged bone that interferes with your nasal passages. Balloon ostial dilation is another endoscopic procedure that involves inserting a thin balloon device into the narrowed sinus ostium and then inflating the balloon. This procedure helps to improve drainage from the sinuses without removing tissue from the nose, which leads to less bleeding, quicker healing and a faster return to your normal activities.
After surgical nasal polyps removal, nasal saline rinse and nasal steroid spray are recommended for long-term use to help prevent the nasal polyps from returning.
It's important to remember that even with surgical removal, nasal polyps are likely to return. Research suggests that recurrence typically occurs within ten years. If you experience new symptoms after nasal polyp removal, speak with your medical professional to determine the next steps, which may include medication or another surgical procedure.
Final Notes
If you have nasal polyps and are suffering from chronic nasal congestion, recurring sinus infections or breathing difficulties, you should speak with a medical professional about nasal polyps removal and different treatment options.
Speaking with a medical professional can help determine the best approach for your unique symptoms. Addressing the underlying cause of your respiratory symptoms and addressing them with one of the available treatment options can help you breathe more freely and improve your overall quality of life.