What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft growths that sometimes develop inside your nasal and sinus cavities. Polyps are noncancerous and usually painless, but they can interfere with your breathing and smell and make you more likely to get sinus infections.
Not all nasal polyps need treatment. If your polyps are causing sinus or breathing problems, our providers at Beach Cities ENTS in Torrance and El Segundo, CA can help you explore your options. Prescription medications or surgery may help eliminate these troublesome growths.
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
Doctors aren't sure of the exact cause, but there is often a link between polyps and chronic sinus inflammation. Some people with asthma or allergies eventually develop nasal polyps. Chronic sinusitis can also increase your risk of polyps.
At Beach Cities ENTS, you can receive an in-depth evaluation. Your provider will examine your nose and sinuses and determine whether you're at risk for polyps. If you have nasal polyps, your Beach Cities ENTS provider will help determine the cause and develop a customized plan for treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps?
Small polyps often go unnoticed, but larger polyps can block your nasal passages and cause discomfort. Symptoms can include:
- Runny nose
- Stuffy nose
- Post-nasal drip
- Decreased sense of smell
- Loss of taste
- Facial pain or pressure
- Headache
- Tooth pain
Large polyps may also interfere with your breathing. These symptoms can be especially noticeable when you're asleep. People with large polyps often snore, and some may suffer from sleep apnea.
Nasal Polyps Reviews
I've have nasal issues that got terrible over the last 10 years. I saw many ENTs & allergists over that time, all of whom suggested nothing more than nasal sprays, avoid dust, etc. Dr Sesi was the first and only Dr that requested a CSCAN which showed many other issues (polyps, severe inflammation) & said that I had chronic sinusitis that needed surgery. The results have been life changing & I can breath right for the first time in 10 years! Thank you Dr Sesi for helping me out so very much!
Dr. Levine is amazing, thorough, compassionate, and occasionally funny! After years of suffering with Asthma, Allergies and Nasal Polyps, essentially a mucus making machine, Dr. Levine recommended surgery. He reviewed all my options, and I was confident I made the best decision, my breathing improved 100%, no more emergency inhalers, no more running nose and most important, I can smell the flowers again. I highly recommend Dr. Brett Levine! Special Shout out to Wanda! She is awesome.
Dr. Levine is amazing, thorough, compassionate, and occasionally funny! After years of suffering with Asthma, Allergies and Nasal Polyps, essentially a mucus making machine, Dr. Levine recommended surgery. He reviewed all my options, and I was confident I made the best decision, my breathing improved 100%, no more emergency inhalers, no more running nose and most important, I can smell the flowers again. I highly recommend Dr. Brett Levine! Special Shout out to Wanda! She is awesome.
3
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
How Are Nasal Polyps Treated?
If you're having breathing problems or stubborn congestion, the Beach Cities ENTS team may perform a simple, non-invasive procedure called nasal endoscopy to get a detailed, up-close look at the inside of your nose and nasal passages. This procedure takes no more than a few seconds and is extremely low-risk. Your doctor may also order a CT scan. CT scans can help your provider learn what's causing your symptoms. If you have polyps, your CT scan also reveals their size and location.
Smaller polyps sometimes respond to prescription medication. Your provider might suggest oral pills or nasal steroid sprays. These medications help control inflammation and shrink polyps over time. At-home treatments, like saline rinses and humidifiers, can also provide symptom relief.
If you have large polyps, or if your polyps don't respond to medication, you may need surgery. Polypectomy, or polyp removal, is generally a simple outpatient procedure.
It leaves no visible scars and carries few risks. Most patients can go home the day of their procedure and return to their normal activities within two weeks.
Beach Cities ENTS' surgeons are board-certified and can help you choose the procedure that's right for you.
For expert nasal polyps care, call Beach Cities ENTS today or schedule an appointment online. We're committed to helping patients in the Torrance and El Segundo, CA areas find relief from nasal polyps.
Nasal Polyps FAQ
Can nasal polyps come back after treatment?
Yes, nasal polyps can recur because the underlying inflammation may continue even after successful treatment. Regular follow-up visits and ongoing management can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
When should I see an ENT for nasal polyps?
You should schedule an evaluation if you have persistent nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, facial pressure, or a reduced sense of smell that does not improve with basic treatment. Our team at Beach Cities ENTS helps patients throughout Torrance and El Segundo, CA identify the cause of their symptoms and recommend the most appropriate care.
Can nasal polyps affect your sense of smell?
Yes, nasal polyps can block airflow to the smell receptors inside the nose, leading to a reduced or even complete loss of smell. Treating the underlying inflammation and removing obstruction when appropriate may help restore this important sense.
