Nasal polyps are fleshy swellings or cysts that commonly appear in the lining of the nasal cavities. Some hereditary conditions are also associated with nasal polyps, most commonly cystic fibrosis. It is typically found in patients with:

Head and Neck Cancers
  • Allergies
  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Asthma
  • Aspirin Intolerance

Nasal polyps are watery in appearance, non-cancerous and vary in size. In fact, some patients may not show any symptoms if the polyps are small.

While nasal polyps are not cancerous, they may cause other problems, such as blocking sinus pathways. This makes a person more susceptible to sinus infections. Larger polyps can fill the entire nasal cavity and cause airflow blockage, leading to more serious conditions like sinusitis. They can also cause the sense of smell to significantly decrease.

While the exact cause of nasal polyps is unknown, it is believed that chronic inflammation may be a large factor. Other common signs and symptoms of nasal polyps include:

Head and Neck Cancers
  • Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness
  • Runny nose
  • Facial Pressure most notably around the forehead
  • Decreased or lack of smell and/or taste
  • Frequent sinus infections
  • Snoring and sleep apnea
  • Itching around your eyes

Nose and sinus symptoms must be evaluated by a trusted specialist such as Dr. Shuaib. He will perform a complete evaluation of your nose to determine if there are any visible polyps. If polyps are present, he will discuss a wide range of treatment options. Simple medicines can often lead to significant improvement and resolution of the symptoms. Recent technology has also made treatments more efficient, safer and more comfortable.

HOW DO YOU TREAT NASAL POLYPS

Flooding the sinuses with salt water may ease nasal congestion and get rid of unwanted mucous. Many nasal saline irrigation products are available, such as the SinuPulse Elite and the Neti Pot.

If over-the-counter medical therapy options cannot clear nasal polyps, prescription medicines may be the next option. Some examples include:

Head and Neck Cancers
  • Topical sprays of nasal steroids
  • Antihistamines
  • Antibiotics
  • Oral Steroids

For polyps that do not respond fully to the above treatments, surgery may be advised. If so, you are in good hands with Dr. Shuaib, as nasal polyp surgery can get the condition under control and provide a significant improvement to your quality of life.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), or Polypectomy, is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. This surgery not only removes the polyps themselves but also opens the cavity portion of the sinus where polyps tend to form.

FESS is performed by inserting a small tube into the nostrils with a small camera, which guides the tube into the cavities of the sinus in order to remove the polyps. Dr. Shuaib can also restore adequate ventilation and sinus drainage. Each procedure is followed by a spray, antibiotic or oral steroid treatment to keep the polyps under control.

Prevention is key and with the help of Dr. Shuaib, your nasal passages can be free and clear. Please call to schedule an appointment today.

Dr. Stefan Shuaib is one of the top head and neck surgeons in Texas and provides on-site diagnosis and treatment in the Rio Grande Valley. If you are concerned about any changes or symptoms you have been experiencing, it is important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shuaib by calling (956) 362-8125.