Nasal polyps are painless, soft growths in the lining of the air-filled spaces linked to the nasal cavity. The grape-like polyps can grow in clusters, making it difficult for one to breathe. This condition is non-cancerous but, if not treated on time, it can be pretty fatal. This article discusses the causes and symptoms of nasal polyps.

Causes of nasal polyps
There is no particular cause linked with nasal polyps. However, specific health conditions and risk factors contribute to this growth in the nasal cavity:

1. Chronic sinus infections
Nasal polyps may arise with rhinosinusitis or chronic sinusitis, where fluids get accumulated in the nasal cavity. The inflammation of the sinuses can provoke infection and allergies, and as the symptoms are prolonged, the condition may develop into nasal polyps.

2. Allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is characterized by inflammation caused due to common allergens like pollen, dirt, dust, or pet dander. This condition is a milder version of sinusitis, which can develop into nasal polyps due to fluid accumulation. It is common for our immune system to respond to allergens negatively, and continuous sneezes can lead to inflammation in the nasal cavity and sinuses.

3. Asthma
This allergic condition is associated with inflammation in the nasal airways, which tends to generate extra mucus due to allergens. Asthma patients’ nasal cavities are more sensitive than normal people, so it may be common for them to have a runny nose or fluid accumulation more often. And the inflammation and fluid accumulation can potentially lead to nasal polyps.

4. Cystic fibrosis
This genetic condition can lead to lung infections that persist and can cause the accumulation of excess mucus in the airways of the nasal cavity. The mucus tends to trap pathogens, triggering infections and inflammation (sinusitis), which again poses a high risk of nasal polyps.

Symptoms
Nasal polyps lack nerve sensations; hence, they are painless. However, they are associated with other uncomfortable symptoms. A fatal complication of nasal polyps is when it covers the nasal passage entirely. To avoid that, it is vital to watch out for the below signs and symptoms:

1. Chronic nasal congestion
Persistent nasal congestion is one of the common symptoms of nasal polyps. This happens when the polyps cover the nasal passage.

2. Runny nose
A runny nose can persist in the case of nasal polyps as a result of nasal congestion. The runny nose can also cause inflammation.

3. Reduced sense of smell
Since most of the nasal passage is blocked due to the polyps, it can obstruct the nose’s olfactory nerves responsible for the sense of smell.

4. Snoring
The polyps block the nasal passage, making it difficult for one to breathe. Hence, most patients get used to breathing through their mouth, which results in snoring.