Nasal polyps are small growths that can develop along the lining inside the nose in response to irritation and swelling. Nasal polyps are considered benign. You may not even know you have them if you have only a few small ones.
However, they can become swollen and irritated. Larger polyps or a cluster of polyps actually block your nasal passages. Common symptoms of nasal polyps can include:
- nasal congestion
- runny nose
- postnasal drip
- pain or pressure in your face
- pain in your teeth
- reduced sense of smell or taste
- snoring
In more serious cases, nasal polyps that block the nasal passages may lead to more frequent sinus infections, more frequent asthma attacks in people who have asthma, and even sleep apnea or other sleep problems.
Options to reduce the symptoms and size of the polyps include a variety of nasal sprays.
Common triggers for nasal polyps
Before making a diagnosis and recommending a treatment, your doctor will confirm whether you have a history of sinus infections or other medical issues.
A sinus CT exam can help your doctor get a better look at your nasal passages to find out if polyps may be growing. In other cases, your doctor may perform a nasal endoscopy.
There are some culprits that are often associated with nasal polyps, such as:
- chronic inflammation
- asthma
- recurring infections
- allergies
- drug sensitivities
- immune disorders
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), about 20% of people with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) have nasal polyps. Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) affects about 12% of adults. People with a CRSwNP diagnosis will develop nasal polyps.
Treatment for nasal polyps
Treatment options for nasal polyps include oral steroids, injections of biologic medicines like dupilumab (Dupixent), and other medications. In severe cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the polyps or to apply topical medications.
However, the most common treatment is nasal spray steroids — both for relieving symptoms and preventing the regrowth of polyps after surgery. A nasal irrigation device with a steroid solution may also be used to rinse sinuses.
Your doctor may recommend one of these options:
Fluticasone nasal spray contains a corticosteroid that can help reduce swelling. It can also be used to treat nasal polyps. Although there are many over-the-counter (OTC) versions, including Flonase, your doctor might advise a prescription strength version, such as Xhance, which you can use twice a day.
Beclomethasone spray often treats allergic symptoms, such as hay fever or rhinitis. It is also used to prevent nasal polyps from reforming after removal surgery. You can use this corticosteroid spray twice a day. Brand names include Beconase AQ, QNASL, and Vancenase AQ.
Budesonide nasal spray, sold under the brand name of Rhinocort, is a corticosteroid designed for daily use.
Nasonex is the brand name for mometasone nasal spray, which many people use to treat the runny, stuffy nose associated with seasonal and perennial allergies. You can also use this corticosteroid nasal spray to treat nasal polyps.
This corticosteroid nasal spray can prevent the regrowth of nasal polyps after surgery. Brand names include Allernaze and Nasacort.
Ciclesonide is another corticosteroid that you spray into each nostril once a day. Brand names include Zetonna and Omnaris.
Be mindful of nasal spray side effects
Before starting to use a nasal spray for polyps, talk with your doctor to help you decide which one to try.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays can have side effects. Most of the time, the side effects will be relatively minor and may include:
- a burning sensation in your nose
- a dry and irritated throat
- possibly a funny taste in your mouth
If nasal drying is severe, you may experience nose bleeding.
However, serious side effects, such as changes to your eyesight, are possible. Be sure to check in with your doctor if you notice unusual symptoms.
Always talk with your doctor about medications and preexisting conditions you may have, such as glaucoma.