Nasal polyps are common, noncancerous growths within the nasal passages or sinuses. They may not always cause noticeable symptoms, especially when small.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths on the moist lining (mucosa) inside the nose or sinuses. They often appear sac-like, movable, and can vary in color from grey to yellow or pink. Larger polyps or clusters can resemble peeled grapes.
These growths typically occur in both nostrils and can cause a range of symptoms due to the physical obstruction they create. Common issues include chronic nasal stuffiness, a reduced sense of smell and taste, and persistent postnasal drip. Individuals might also experience facial pressure or pain, headaches, and snoring.
Is There a Genetic Connection?
Nasal polyps are not directly inherited like some genetic disorders, but there is a recognized genetic predisposition that can make individuals more susceptible. Certain genetic variations may influence how nasal tissues react to inflammation, increasing the likelihood of polyp formation. Studies have identified numerous genetic variants in genes linked to inflammation and immune response, contributing to polyp development.
Familial clustering, where polyps appear in multiple family members, suggests a genetic influence and a heightened tendency within certain families rather than a straightforward inheritance pattern. Specific hereditary conditions are also strongly associated with nasal polyps, such as cystic fibrosis (CF), where extensive polyps are a common complication, particularly in children.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by impaired ciliary movement, also frequently leads to nasal polyps. Nasal polyps are found in 15-30% of individuals with PCD, significantly higher than the 3-4% prevalence in the general population.
Beyond Genetics: Other Causes
Chronic inflammation is the primary cause of nasal polyps. Persistent irritation and swelling within the nasal passages and sinuses foster their growth. This prolonged inflammation is often linked to several common conditions.
Chronic rhinosinusitis, defined as sinus inflammation lasting 12 weeks or longer, is a frequent precursor to polyps. Asthma also shares a strong connection with nasal polyps, with a significant percentage of individuals having both conditions, often worsening each other.
Allergies, such as allergic rhinitis, can also contribute to polyp formation by triggering ongoing nasal inflammation. Another notable factor is aspirin sensitivity, a condition often part of a triad including asthma and recurrent nasal polyps, known as Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD).
Recognizing and Addressing Nasal Polyps
If persistent nasal congestion, a reduced sense of smell, or chronic sinus infections lasting more than 10 days occur, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. These symptoms can indicate the presence of nasal polyps, requiring professional evaluation.
An ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist typically diagnoses nasal polyps through a physical examination. Diagnosis may involve using a nasal endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, to visualize the nasal passages and sinuses. In some cases, imaging scans such as a CT or MRI may be performed to determine the exact size and location of the polyps and to rule out other conditions.