You may have nasal polyps if you experience symptoms of a perpetually runny nose and diminished sense of smell. These are small noncancerous masses that grow inside the nasal and sinus cavities. Many people need medical treatment to manage these growths, but self-care strategies can also help reduce symptoms.
Nasal polyps tend to develop from chronic inflammation and swelling in the sinuses. They’re common among people with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), which affects 5% to 12% of adults in the United States. In fact, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that 20% to 30% of people with CRS have nasal polyps, commonly referred to as chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).
These benign growths are not always visible but can cause symptoms such as:
- nasal congestion
- a runny nose
- headache
- pain or pressure in the sinuses
- trouble breathing
- a postnasal drip
- a decreased sense of smell
Many people also find it hard to get a good night’s sleep.
Self-care strategies to try
Self-care techniques are a common recommendation for people beginning CRS treatment to help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. These techniques can especially benefit those with CRSwNP.
Consider trying some of these home remedies. Although they won’t eradicate nasal polyps, they may provide some relief.
Doctors often recommend using a saltwater spray or nasal wash to rinse out your nasal passages. Washing out your nasal passages removes irritants and can even improve mucus flow. You can buy a saline wash at the store or make your own at home.
Run a humidifier in your home, especially at night, to maintain moisture in your nose and sinuses and relieve stuffiness and congestion.
Take a hot, steamy shower. While you wash, inhale the steam to loosen up the mucus in your sinuses and improve congestion. You can also try steam inhalation therapy by boiling a pot of water and inhaling the steam that rises from it. Ensure the pot is on a stable surface so you can’t accidentally knock it over and burn yourself. Always close your eyes to avoid contact with the steam. You also need to keep it out of reach of children or pets.
4. Anti-inflammatory diet
Oxidative stress occurs when the body has too many free radicals and not enough antioxidants to get rid of them. It can be caused by factors like stress, eating an unhealthy diet, or smoking.
A recent study noted that oxidative stress can drive inflammation that may contribute to the development of nasal polyps. A diet high in antioxidants, which are found in many vegetables and fruits, may help.
Allergies, infections, or asthma are associated with chronic rhinosinusitis, which can also lead to the development of nasal polyps. Your triggers might include house mite dust, cigarette smoke, air pollution, or several other factors. Try to avoid triggers for allergic reactions or asthma attacks as much as possible.
While stress may not directly trigger the development of nasal polyps, it can trigger asthma attacks in some people. Stress might even worsen an allergic reaction. Research suggests that many individuals with CRSwNP experience depression, anxiety, and an overall decreased quality of life. Focusing on managing your stress levels might not necessarily relieve your symptoms, but it may make you feel better overall.
Different people experience different levels of success with self-care strategies. However, if you’ve tried them all and none are effective, talk with your doctor.
Some self-care strategies can also be used in tandem with intranasal sprays or other treatments. You may need to use a corticosteroid nasal spray, which is generally considered a first-line treatment for nasal polyps. In fact, research suggests people with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps can find relief by starting with a combination of intranasal corticosteroids and nasal irrigation with a saline solution for several months. Some may also get relief from taking a systemic steroid like prednisone.
The goal of treating nasal polyps is to reduce or relieve symptoms that can harm your quality of life. Self-care strategies can go a long way toward helping you breathe and feel better. However, if your nasal polyps get large enough, they can block your nasal passages. At that point, you may need to talk with your doctor about other treatments, which could include endoscopic sinus surgery or biologic medications.