Nasal polyps are growths that occur inside the nose lining and the sinuses. They are non-cancerous and not painful; however, they cause an obstruction in breathing if the growth is too big. It is found to be a common condition and usually portrays symptoms of common cold. If not treated in time, it may cause more irritation and lead to a serious infection. Let’s look at the condition in detail and explore its management options.
Causes
This condition may be caused due to the chronic inflammation in the wet layer inside the nose called the nasal mucosa. Due to an infection or allergy, this layer swells up and turns red and if treatment is not provided, it turns into a solid tear-shaped formation. Some risk factors that cause the swelling include hay fever, recurring sinus infections, inflamed blood vessels, intolerance to certain treatment options and also cystic fibrosis.
Symptoms
While this condition lacks any nerve sensation and the growth inside the nose is painless, it does obstruct airflow, which can lead to stuffy feeling and also cause regular infections. Some symptoms to be aware of include:
- Runny nose
- Nasal stuffiness and congestion
- Postnasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell
- Pressure on the forehead or face
- Unusual snoring
- Headaches
- Sleep apnea
Natural remedies
Turmeric
This has great anti-inflammatory properties that help manage nasal polyps. Add some turmeric powder to any foods or recipes or you can even prepare warm turmeric milk to drink before you sleep at night. Mix a pinch of turmeric in a cup of warm milk and drink slowly.
Eucalyptus
Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, eucalyptus is known for its healing properties. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to some water and use cotton to dab this solution in your nasal passages. It can help unblock the choked nostrils.
Garlic
Garlic helps reduce inflammation and also helps in removing excess mucus from the throat. Add a clove or two of garlic to your recipes to reap its benefits. It is also helpful in boosting the immune system.
Foods to eat
Add fruits like oranges, limes, mango, guava, and cantaloupe to your daily meals as these foods are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help prevent damage from free radicals to the body. Also, include vegetables like carrots, spinach, cabbage, squash, peas, and even pumpkin in your nutrition regime to manage nasal polyps.
Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids help delay the recurrence of nasal polyps, so include salmon, mackerel, halibut, and sardines in your meals. Selenium, found in mushrooms and Brazil nuts, is an essential antioxidant that enhances the immune system and helps prevent infection.
Treatments
Apart from natural remedies, consulting a doctor and following certain treatments may help manage the condition.
Prescribed options
The aim of the treatment options is to reduce the size of the polyp that is causing any obstruction of airflow in the nose. Treatments prescribed by doctors can help relieve some of the symptoms which are caused due to the inflammation inside the nose.
Nasal spray
A nasal spray is also sometimes used as a treatment option if other prescribed options do not work. Not only does the spray treat the symptoms by shrinking the polyp but it may also help in the complete removal of it.
Surgery
If the infection continues, there is a high chance that the nasal polyps will reoccur. If none of the other treatment plans work, then the best option is getting surgery. This is also usually recommended if the polyps are big and uncomfortable. This procedure is called a polypectomy.
