How can I treat my nasal polyps?
May 21, 2022 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Roberta Weinert
Dear Doctor,
My name is Edith Schäfer and I have been suffering from nasal polyps for some time. I have noticed that my nasal breathing is restricted and I often experience headaches, snoring, and a decreased sense of smell. These symptoms are affecting my quality of life and I am concerned about my health.
So far, I have tried to treat my symptoms with decongestant nasal sprays and nasal rinses, but unfortunately these measures have only provided temporary relief. I have also heard that in some cases nasal polyps need to be surgically removed, but I am worried about the risks and potential outcomes of such an operation.
Therefore, I would like to know from you what treatment options are available for nasal polyps that provide long-term relief and what risks and side effects are associated with the different therapeutic options. Are there alternative treatment methods that I should consider? How can I improve my symptoms long-term and effectively treat my nasal polyps without the need for surgery?
I thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Edith Schäfer
Dear Mrs. Schäfer,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an ear, nose, and throat doctor. Nasal polyps are a common condition that falls under upper respiratory diseases and is usually associated with inflammation of the nasal mucosa. The symptoms you described such as nasal congestion, headaches, snoring, and reduced sense of smell are typical of nasal polyps and can indeed affect quality of life.
Decongestant nasal sprays and nasal rinses can provide some relief of symptoms, but these are usually temporary measures. If symptoms persist despite these conservative measures, treatment with medications or in some cases even surgery may be necessary.
Treatment options include corticosteroid nasal sprays or tablets that have anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce the swelling of the polyps. These can be used long-term to control symptoms, but it is important to note that these medications can have side effects, so it is important to use them under medical supervision.
In some cases, it may be necessary to surgically remove the nasal polyps. This is usually done minimally invasively with the help of endoscopy. The polyps are removed to improve nasal breathing and alleviate symptoms. The risks of such an operation are generally low, but complications such as bleeding or infections may occur.
There are also alternative treatment methods such as homeopathy or acupuncture that can help alleviate symptoms. These methods can be complementary to conventional treatment, but should be coordinated with a doctor.
To improve your symptoms in the long term, it is important to undergo regular check-ups with an ear, nose, and throat doctor and adjust treatment accordingly. A healthy lifestyle with adequate exercise, a balanced diet, and avoidance of irritants such as cigarette smoke can also help alleviate symptoms.
I hope this information helps you and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have. Please also consult an ear, nose, and throat doctor to discuss your symptoms individually and plan a suitable therapy.
Best regards,
Roberta Weinert, Specialist in Ear, Nose, and Throat Medicine
