Treatment & Management

Corticosteroid nasal spray

Corticosteroid nasal sprays can help relieve symptoms and reduce polyp size and are safe for long-term use.1,2

Oral glucocorticoids

Oral corticosteroids can also reduce polyp size and improve symptoms. However, they should be used cautiously given the risk of long-term side eects associated with steroid use.1,2

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infectious exacerbations of nasal polyps.2

Biologics

These drugs target factors associated with the type-2 inflammation observed in the polyp tissue to reduce polyp size and improve symptoms.2 Recent guideline changes advise considering biologics in patients who remain uncontrolled despite appropriate medical treatment and sinus surgery, and who fulfill 3 of the 5 following criteria3 :

  • Presence of type 2 inflammation
  • Regular need for systemic corticosteroids
  • Significant impact on QOL
  • Loss of smell
  • Comorbid asthma

Surgery

Surgery to remove polyps may be considered when nasal polyps remain bothersome despite oral and topical treatments. However, nasal polyps can still recur after surgery if the underlying inflammation is left uncontrolled.2,4

Being proactive in managing your nasal polyps and having an open conversation with your doctor can positively influence your treatment outcome and greatly enhance your daily quality of life.

References:
1. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. Nasal Polyps. Available at: https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/nasal-polyps. Accessed on April 2023.
2. Stevens WW, et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract 2016;4:565-72.
3. Fokkens WJ, et al. Rhinology 2023;61:194-202.
4. Bachert C, et al. Lancet 2019;394:1638-1650.

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.