Nasal polyps are fleshy swelling, which develops on the lining of the nasal passage. These outgrowths are non-cancerous in nature. The size and color of polyps are not the same in all patients. The size of polyps varies from patient to patient also, in some patients the color of polyps is light brown while in some it is pink. As the problem increases the size of nasal polyps also increases and resembles grapes in terms of shape. Polyps may grow in one nose or in both the nose at the same time.
Can Nasal Polyps Be Left Untreated?
The problem of nasal polyps does not show any significant symptoms in the early stage. Hence, if the problem is left untreated for a prolonged period of time then it can lead to serious complications such as it can start filling sinuses and also the nasal cavity. When the outgrowth fails to grow further it starts eroding the bones and damage the bone linings. This way the air passage in the nose gets blocked causing interrupted breathing.
All these problems lead to various complications. Some of these problems can lead to physical problems while some complications might lead to blindness. This is the reason it is suggested that after diagnosis one should immediately seek medical help and proper treatment without any delay. Patients who continuously ignore the problem thinking it will resolve on its own with time suffer severe replications later. After the problem becomes severe even doctors fail to treat the problem.(2)
When To Go To Doctor For Nasal Polyps?
It is suggested that if the symptoms last for more than ten days then you should visit the doctor for nasal polyps. The interesting fact is that the symptoms of nasal polyps are very similar to other health conditions such as cough and cold. One should immediately visit a doctor if they experience any of the following health problems.(1)
- Sudden swelling around the eyes
- Interrupted breathing
- Double vision or limited vision
- Severe headache
- High fever
Chronic sinusitis both with polyps and without polyps is very difficult to clear completely. Patients discuss the problem with their doctors and based on that doctors design an effective treatment plan for managing the symptoms of the problem and also treat difficult health problems such as allergies which contribute in making the problem even worst.
The aim of treatment is to decrease the size of the nasal polyps and slowly eliminating it completely. Medical experts first start with medications and later if they feel that the problem is not getting resolved then they opt for surgery. However, the fact is that even surgeries fail to provide a permanent solution to the problem and it starts reoccurring.
Experts suggest that before visiting a doctor one should prepare a list of questions in advance which they can discuss with their doctors. This way they will get to know about the health problems in detail. After understanding the problem in detail patient can make necessary changes in their lifestyle and can prevent further health damage.
The problem of nasal polyps is very common, research reveals that almost forty percent of the polyps and it is observed that women are more prone to develop this problem compared to men. In addition, people who have asthma, weak immune system, any type of allergy are also prone to develop this problem.(1)
Facts Related To Nasal Polyps
Some of the facts about nasal polyps are as follows:
- The problem of nasal polyps is common in men as compared to women.
- At times, if the problem becomes severe then it can lead to sleep apnea.
- Usually, in the initial stage, nasal polyps do not show any prominent symptoms making it difficult to identify the problem.
- The problem is not limited to any particular age, instead; it can occur in any age groups.
Also Read:
- Are Nasal Polyps Painful & Is It Painful To Have Polyps Removed?
- How Do You Detect Nasal Polyps & Can Nasal Polyps Bleed?
- What Is The Prognosis For Nasal Polyps?
- Alternative Treatment For Nasal Polyps & Is It A Progressive Disease?
- How To Diagnose Nasal Polyps And What Is The Best Medicine For It?
- Who Is At Risk For Nasal Polyps & Is There A Blood Test For It?
