Signs & Symptoms

Although nasal polyps can be asymptomatic in some patients, others can experience a range of symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life (QoL). Let’s take a closer look at some of them here.1,2

Nasal congestion

The main symptom of nasal polyps is nasal congestion. Individuals often find it diicult to breathe through their nose, causing them to breathe through their mouths frequently. This can also disrupt sleep.3

Runny nose

Excessive discharge from the nose or rhinorrhoea is common.3,4

Postnasal drip

Postnasal drip refers to the sensation of mucus or fluid from the nasal passages flowing down the back of the throat.

Loss or decreased sense of smell

An impaired sense of smell, usually attributed to nasal obstruction, is a common complaint among people with nasal polyps. It aects 60–80% of patients with CRSwNP.5,6

Headache and facial pain

Approximately one-fifth of individuals with nasal polyps experience headaches or facial pain. Sinus surgery can help alleviate these symptoms and improve QoL.7,8

Sleep disturbance

Large nasal polyps may interfere with breathing at night, leading to snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.3

References:
1. World Allergy Organization. Nasal polyposis: A multifactorial disease. Available at: https://www.worldallergy.org/educational_programs/world_allergy_forum/sydney/pawankar.php#:~:text=In. Accessed on April 2023.
2. Ta NH. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2019;101:35-39.
3. Patient. Nasal polyps. Last updated: September 2022. Available at: https://patient.info/ears-nose-throat-mouth/nasal-polyps-leaflet#nav-1. Accessed on September 2023.
4. MSD Manual. Nasal polyps. Last updated July 2023. Available at: https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/ear,-nose,-and-throat-disorders/nose-and-sinus-disorders/nasal-polyps#. Accessed on September 2023.
5. AJMC. Dupilumab found to significantly improve sense of smell in patients with CRS with nasal polyps. (2022) Available at: https://www.ajmc.com/view/dupilumab-found-to-significantly-improve-sense-of-smell-in- patients-with-crs-with-nasal-polyps. Accessed on September 2023.
6. Vento SI, et al. Am J Rhinol 2001;15:159-163.
7. Nguyen DT, et al. Acta Otolaryngol 2015;135:1045-1050.
8. Nguyen DT, et al. Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis 2016;133:301-305.

The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment.