- Content version
- 1.0
- Last scientific review
- مايو 2026
What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, fleshy growths that develop from the lining of the nose and sinuses due to chronic inflammation. They usually appear on both sides and are not cancerous.
Nasal polyps are a chronic condition that can be controlled with regular treatment, though they may return.
What are the symptoms?
- Persistent nasal obstruction
- Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste
- Runny nose or postnasal drip
- Facial pressure
- Snoring and disturbed sleep
- Recurrent sinusitis
Who is more at risk?
- Asthma patients
- Patients with allergic rhinitis
- Those with aspirin and anti-inflammatory drug sensitivity
- Patients with allergic fungal sinusitis, which is relatively common in the Kingdom
Polyps in children are uncommon and need evaluation, as they may sometimes be linked to other conditions such as cystic fibrosis.
How is it diagnosed?
- Nasal endoscopy in the clinic, which clearly shows the polyps.
- Sinus CT scan, especially before surgery.
- Sometimes blood tests or allergy testing.
- Analysis of the polyps after removal to confirm their nature.
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drug sensitivity
Some patients with polyps and asthma experience severe worsening of breathing or nasal symptoms after taking aspirin or certain anti-inflammatory pain relievers. If you've noticed this, tell your doctor and avoid these medications.
What are the treatment options?
Steroid sprays and saline rinses
The foundation of treatment, used daily long-term, even after surgery.
Steroid tablets
May be prescribed for a short period during severe symptoms, and aren't used frequently due to their side effects.
Endoscopic sinus surgery
Used when there's no improvement with medication. It removes the polyps and opens the sinuses, allowing topical treatment to reach them more effectively.
Biologic therapies
Newer injectable treatments that target the causes of inflammation, suitable for some patients with severe or recurrent cases, especially with asthma. Your doctor determines suitability.
How do I maintain the results?
- Continue saline rinses and steroid spray/rinse daily, even when feeling better.
- Keep your follow-up endoscopy appointments.
- Control your asthma and allergic rhinitis.
- Avoid smoking, smoke, and incense.
- See your doctor early if your sense of smell declines again, as it's often the first sign polyps are returning.
When should I see a doctor?
- If nasal obstruction or reduced smell persists.
- If symptoms are on one side only — this needs examination to rule out other causes.
- If accompanied by nosebleeds.
- If your asthma symptoms worsen.
- If symptoms return after treatment or surgery.
Go to the emergency room immediately if you notice:
- Swelling around the eye, bulging of the eye, or vision changes
- Severe headache with neck stiffness or high fever
- Severe breathing difficulty or a severe asthma attack
Remember
- Nasal polyps are a chronic inflammation, not cancer.
- Long-term treatment is necessary to prevent recurrence.
- One-sided symptoms need examination.
- Tell your doctor if you're sensitive to pain relievers.
This information is for health awareness and education, and does not replace a doctor's consultation or direct medical assessment.
Prepared by: Saudi Society of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery · Version 1.0 · Last reviewed: May 2026 · saudiorl.com
