Nasal polyps are benign growths located inside the sinus passages. These non-cancerous growths are commonly treated with medication. However, for more severe cases, surgical options, such as outpatient functional endoscopic sinus surgery, or FESS, may be necessary. Here is more about this endoscopic procedure and how it can help you breathe easier.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Small, teardrop-shaped, and benign, nasal polyps can cause a fair amount of trouble in the nose and sinuses. Fleshy in nature, these painless growths may develop because of chronic inflammation from allergies or repeated sinus infections.
Mostly, nasal polyps grow in adults—middle-aged males, in particular. Research suggests that some people may be genetically predisposed to developing polyps. In other words, the tendency to have polyps in your nose and sinuses can run in your family.
Additionally, having allergies and asthma may predispose you to nasal polyps, as can having the serious respiratory condition called cystic fibrosis. People who are sensitive to NSAIDS and aspirin may develop these small growths with repeated use of these medications.
The symptoms of nasal polyps can resemble those of a head cold or the flu. They include:
- Nasal congestion and constantly clearing your throat due to post- nasal drip
- Pain and pressure across the forehead and cheeks where the sinuses are located
- Diminished senses of smell and taste
- Generalized headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Snoring due to obstructive sleep apnea (breathing cessation)
Will I Need Surgery for Nasal Polyps?
Many people who are diagnosed with nasal polyps respond well to non- surgical treatment regimens. These can include options such as corticosteroid medications (nasal sprays) and a nasal irrigation rinse with plain water or a saline solution.
However, if your polyps are large or block your sinuses, your ENT doctor may suggest surgery to relieve your symptoms. The therapeutic goals for nasal polyps’ surgery include free breathing and fewer infections.
What Does Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Involve?
One type of procedure used to remove nasal polyps is endoscopic surgery. Also called functional endoscopic sinus surgery, or FESS, this minimally invasive ENT procedure, involves use of a thin, lighted tube with an attached camera to view and remove the polyps. The ENT surgeon inserts this endoscope through the nostrils and into the nasal cavity, allowing for precise removal of nasal polyps without extensive cutting or sutures needed.
Endoscopic surgery is performed under general anesthesia. It can take anywhere from one to three hours depending on the size and location of the polyps. Pre-operative preparation involves refraining from smoking and ceasing the use of blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin.
After their FESS surgeries, patients return home the same day. They have packing in their nostrils for the first 24 hours to control any bleeding.
After this initial recovery period, most people return to their normal activities within a week. Restrictions, such as no nose blowing, heavy lifting or strenuous gym workouts, apply for a period of time as determined on a case-by-case basis.
To determine if you are a candidate for FESS, your otolaryngologist will view the interior of your nose and sinuses with an endoscope. You may also undergo CT scan imaging so the doctor can determine the size and location of your nasal polyps.
After Your Nasal Polyp Treatment
Most people who undergo functional endoscopic sinus surgery experience relief from:
- Chronic nasal obstruction and congestion
- Repeated sinus infections
- Impaired sense of smell
However, it is important to note that FESS is not a complete cure for nasal polyps. In some cases, they may recur, and further treatment may be necessary.
To prevent recurrence of symptoms, your ear, nose, throat doctor may recommend certain measures such as avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke and known allergens. It is also important to use any prescribed medications as directed and maintain good sinus hygiene through water or saline solution irrigation.
Learn More About Treatment for Nasal Polyps in Georgetown, TX
At Georgetown ENT, our premiere otolaryngologist, Dr. Scott William Franklin, has helped scores of patients eliminate the discomforts of nasal polyps. You can feel better and breathe easier, too.
Why not book a consultation with Dr. Franklin and his team to learn more about FESS and other treatments for nasal polyps? Call us today at (512) 869-0604 or request your appointment online here.
We look forward to helping you have excellent ear, nose, and throat health.
