Coping Methods For Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are the condition with outgrowths in the nasal cavity. This results in difficulty breathing and nasal congestion. Various coping methods are available for managing the symptoms of nasal polyps.

Nasal polyps of varying severity are present in different patients. Some patients may suffer from a mild form of nasal polyps while others suffer from moderate to the severe form. While moderate to severe form of nasal polyps requires adequate management therapy to alleviate the symptoms that include the permanent use of steroid and other medications. However, the mild form of nasal polyps can be managed with various natural remedies and changing lifestyle habits. These natural remedies and lifestyle changes can also be included in the treatment regimen of moderate to severe nasal polyps. Following are some of the coping methods for nasal polyps:

Medical Intervention. Various drugs in various dosage forms are available to manage the symptoms of nasal polyps. The symptoms of nasal polys include swelling, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, risk of recurrent infections and headache. The drug of choice in nasal polyps are steroids that come in the form of the nasal spray, oral dosage forms, and injectable forms, and choice of dosage form depends upon the severity of symptoms and patients’ compliance. Other medications may include antihistamines and antibiotics for treating allergy and infections respectively¹.

Avoiding Nasal Irritants. Nasal irritants irritate the nasal cavity that results in inflammation and swelling. The patient with nasal polyps should avoid nasal irritants such as chemical times, dust, debris, tobacco fumes and other types of allergens².

Humidification. Maintain proper humidification in your living environment. Humidification hoists the nasal passage, improves breathing and flow of mucus in the sinus cavity is improved². Further, it also helps in to prevent inflammation and blockage. It is to be noted that the filter of humidifier should be cleaned regularly to avoid any risk of infection.

Probiotics. Probiotics are one of the best immunomodulating foods. Probiotics boost the immune system and help to prevent infection³. Probiotic-rich foods along with high fibers should be incorporated into the diet of patients, especially with immunocompromised patients.

Hydration. Apart from nasal irrigation, and steam inhalation, another method to keep hydrated the nasal cavity is to drink sufficient amount of water and keeping the body hydrated³. It helps to moisten the nasal cavity and helps to reduce the viscosity of mucus for easing its flow.

Deep Breathing Exercises. Breathing exercises helps improves the efficacy of lungs and helps in normal breathing³. It also helps in clearing the nasal cavity. Exhaling the air through bellow breathing in short bursts helps reducing nasal congestion.

Nasal Irrigation. Nasal irritation done through Neti pot helps relieving the symptoms of nasal polyps⁴. Nasal irrigation helps to reduce the inflammation and swelling of the nasal cavity and helps reduce the viscosity of mucus. It also clears the mucus and debris for nasal passage and improves breathing.

Natural Treatment. Various natural and herbal treatments are available to alleviate the symptoms of nasal polyps. This includes tea tree oil that reduces inflammation and infection, chamomile that prevents allergies and inflammation, and turmeric that is well known for its anti-inflammatory property⁴.

Steam Inhalation. Steam inflammation helps to relieve the symptoms of nasal polyps. The most notable reduction was the sinus inflammation induced headache⁴. Steam inhalation is more effective when the essential oils such as peppermint oil or eucalyptus oil are mixed in water.

Sound Sleep. Sleep is the way of the body to revitalize itself so as to gain energy for fighting against infection and disease⁵. Proper sleep and rest are required to have an immune system functioning in a perfect manner.

Balanced Diet. Diet plays an important role in improving immune system⁵. Diet should incorporate immune building foods such as vitamin C.

Coping methods for nasal polyps include medications, nasal irrigation, proper sleep, steam inhalation, humidification, hydration, and a balanced diet.

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Also Read:

• What are Nasal Polyps, Know its Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
• Are Nasal Polyps Painful & Is It Painful To Have Polyps Removed?
• How Do You Detect Nasal Polyps & Can Nasal Polyps Bleed?
• Is Nasal Polyps A Serious Condition & Can It Be Reversed?
• 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?