Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-cancerous growths of the lining of the nasal cavity.

Smaller polyps don’t tend to create any problem, but larger ones can cause breathing difficulty, sneezing problems, reducing the sense of smell or taste. Mostly the smaller polyps remain asymptomatic.

CAUSES/RISK FACTORS

• Frequent sinus infections – Inflammation in the sinuses may trigger polyps and make them grow faster.
• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis
• Cystic fibrosis of the nose 

SYMPTOMS

• Small, single, or multiple grapes like swelling deep inside the nasal cavity. 
• Frequent cold attacks or repeated sinus infections.
• Stuffiness in the nose causes trouble in breathing through the nose and forces one to breathe through the mouth.
• Sneezing
• Nasal drainage or runny nose.
• Postnasal drip.
• The sensation of pressure or pain over the forehead of the face.
• Pain in your upper teeth.
• A poor sense of smell and taste may not always return after treating the polyps.
• Headache
• Snoring

COMPLICATIONS

Nasal polyps can block the tunnels connecting the nose to the sinus cavities of your face, which may prevent normal airflow and fluid drainage, and this can lead to: 

• Sinus infections (Sinusitis)
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Asthma flare-ups
• Spread of infection to eyes.

DIAGNOSIS

• Clinical Examination – shows polyps inside nasal cavity.

• Imaging studies – like X ray, CT Scan, MRI Scan helps to identify sinus infections.

• Nasal endoscopy. 

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

• Deep breathing exercises at least for 10-15 minutes daily morning and evening.
• Hot baths or showers to relieve congestion in nose and to reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa.
• Avoid irritants or allergens (e.g. airborne pollutants, chemicals, etc) as much as possible.
• Steam inhalation helps in temporary relief of congestion.
• Drink more water, preferably warm water.

HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

Homeopathy is strongly recommended for the management of nasal polyps, especially when the size is small. Timely management of Nasal Polyps with homeopathic medicines helps to avoid surgery and its complications. Moreover, Nasal polyps are very common to recur even after surgery. Homeopathy helps to minimize the chance recurrence as well as to treat.

Research on Nasal Polyps: A prospective, open, non-randomized, single arm, observational trial of pre and post comparison design was conducted on 44 patients suffering from symptomatic Nasal Polyps. Sino-nasal outcome test (SNOT-20) and European Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaires were taken to compare the results of  before and after treatment respectively, and assessed at baseline and after 3 months. Individualized homeopathic medicines were prescribed on the basis of ‘totality of symptoms. The results have revealed complete regressions of polyps in 23 patients (58% cases). This proves the efficacy of Homeopathy in the management of Nasal polyp.

When to see your Homeopathic Doctor: Seek immediate care if you experience Sudden worsening of symptoms, breathing troubles, impaired vision (reduced vision, double vision or limited ability to move your eyes), swelling around your eyes, severe headache associated with fever. 

Write into contact@beingwellhomeopathy.com for inquiries or consultations.