Nasal Polyps
Inflammation inside your nose can lead to small growths, or nasal polyps, forming. These are non-cancerous growths that are usually very small, appearing in the nasal passage lining or within the sinuses. In many cases, you will not know you have nasal polyps – they are not painful but can become bothersome if they cause a nasal obstruction. At Julie Zweig, MD Integrative Sleep & ENT, we provide treatment for nasal polyps that are causing nasal obstruction at our clinic in Alpharetta, GA.
Long-term inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses contributes to the growth of nasal polyps. While it is not known exactly why these growths form, it is a common side effect in those who have chronic sinusitis, asthma or other nasal conditions. It is believed to be linked to an immune system response, which is why some people get nasal polyps, yet others do not.
Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Small nasal polyps usually go unnoticed. They do not have nerve endings and should not cause discomfort if they remain small. If they grow larger, this is when they can begin producing symptoms such as:
- Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Loss or decreased sense of smell or taste
- Runny nose and/or post nasal drip
- Facial pressure or nasal stuffiness
- Snoring
- Upper teeth pain
When nasal polyps begin to cause symptoms, it is time to consult an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist. Nasal polyps can lead to complications such as worsening asthma, frequent sinus infections and obstructive sleep apnea. Treatments for nasal polyps usually include medications or injections that can decrease inflammation and shrink the polyps. Only when conservative treatments are ineffective and symptoms are severe will Dr. Zweig suggest surgical removal of nasal polyps.
If you have symptoms of nasal polyps and want to explore your treatment options, come visit our ENT specialist at Julie Zweig, MD Integrative Sleep & ENT. We offer integrative medicine with a holistic approach for treatment of nasal obstruction and polyps. Contact our office in the Alpharetta, Roswell and Dunwoody, GA, area to book your appointment with Dr. Zweig.
