Nasal polyps are an anomalous growth of tissues in the nasal cavity. The size of polyps and the number of them developing at the same time determine the associated complications. Being aware of the early signs and risk factors of nasal polyps makes it easy to treat them before the condition gets severe. In some people, they grow so much that normal breathing is affected and surgical intervention might be required.

Early signs and risk factors of nasal polyps

Symptoms

• Nasal congestion occurs in almost everyone who develops nasal polyps. Stuffy nose on one or both sides is one of the earliest signs of the condition.
• Congestion in some cases gets severe and leads to the loss of sense of smell temporarily.
• Some people might notice a runny nose instead of congestion. There might also be the problem of post nasal drip occurring along with runny phlegm.
• Sinusitis symptoms like the pain around the eyes and nose can also occur in the case of nasal polyps.
• Some people might also develop sinus after acquiring nasal polyps and leaving it untreated for a long time.
• Snoring is not a common symptom, but could indicate the presence of nasal polyps.

Though it is important to know about the early signs and risk factors of nasal polyps, you should understand that this condition is not always dangerous.

Risk factors of nasal polyps

• Men are at higher risk of developing nasal polyps than women. Age also has a role to play. Adults are more likely to acquire this, especially after the age of 40 years. Older men are also more likely to experience severe symptoms and the associated allergies.
• Individuals with cystic fibrosis are also likelier to experience nasal polyps at some point. Though there is no strong explanation for the correlation between these conditions, this is one of the most common risk factors known.
• Asthma is one of the most prevalent conditions that is associated with nasal polyps. People with chronic asthma might notice benign sac-like growth in their nasal cavity, which further impacts breathing. The reverse is however, not possible and asthma cannot be triggered due to nasal polyps.
• People who are prone to acquiring sinus infections often should keep a close watch for polyps. Excess stuffiness and other symptoms might come as a warning that there is a possible growth that needs to be corrected. Sometimes you might also experience headaches that are slightly different from the usual sinus headaches.

Anyone who is in the high-risk category should know about the early signs and risk factors of nasal polyps. This helps you to stay prepared so that you do not experience any trouble in breathing. You would also be able to conveniently manage the nasal growth without experiencing any amount of discomfort by choosing timely treatments.