Treatment Options for Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. These teardrop-shaped growths are often associated with chronic inflammation caused by conditions like asthma, allergies, or chronic sinus infections. Thankfully, several treatment options like Nucala are available to manage nasal polyps and their causes. Let's take a closer look.
1. Nucala (Mepolizumab)
Nucala, an FDA-approved biologic medication, is a leading treatment for nasal polyps. It works by targeting interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein involved in the immune response that leads to inflammation and the growth of polyps.
It's administered via injection and helps reduce the size of nasal polyps and prevent regrowth. By controlling inflammation, it also alleviates associated symptoms like congestion and sinus pressure.
Patients with severe nasal polyps who have not responded to standard treatments like corticosteroids or surgery may benefit most from Nucala. It is particularly effective for individuals with underlying asthma or eosinophilic inflammation.
Benefits of Nucala include: a reduced need for surgery, improved nasal airflow and less sinus infections.
2. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a mainstay of nasal polyp treatment, commonly used to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps.
Nasal Spray Corticosteroids
Sprays like fluticasone, budesonide or mometasone are typically the first-line treatment. They deliver targeted relief and can be used long-term to manage symptoms.
Oral Corticosteroids
For more severe cases, oral corticosteroids like prednisone may be prescribed. These are typically used short-term due to potential side effects such as weight gain, high blood pressure and bone loss.
Benefits of corticosteroids include reduced inflammation, smaller polyps, relief from congestion and improved breathing.
3. Biologic Medications
In addition to Nucala, other biologics like Dupixent (dupilumab) have shown great promise in treating nasal polyps. These drugs target specific pathways in the immune system to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps.
Biologics are often reserved for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) who do not respond to conventional treatments.
Biologic medications are effective for patients with severe or recurring polyps. They help improve overall quality of life by addressing chronic inflammation.
4. Saline Nasal Irrigation
Saline nasal irrigation is a non-invasive and simple way to relieve symptoms associated with nasal polyps. It involves rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution to flush out allergens, mucus and irritants. Devices like a neti pot or saline spray can be used daily for maintenance.
This method helps reduce nasal congestion and improves breathing. It will also help keep the nasal passages clear and moisturized.
5. Surgery
Surgery may be necessary for patients with large or recurrent nasal polyps that do not respond to medication.
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using an endoscope to remove polyps and clear the sinuses. Recovery is typically quick, but continued use of nasal sprays or biologics may be required to prevent regrowth.
Patients who have this surgery experience immediate relief from severe congestion and improved airflow and sinus drainage.
6. Antihistamines and Decongestants
These medications are often used to manage underlying allergies and symptoms associated with nasal polyps.
Antihistamines
Drugs like loratadine or cetirizine help control allergic reactions that can contribute to polyp formation.
Decongestants
Medications such as pseudoephedrine can temporarily relieve nasal congestion but should be used with caution due to potential side effects.
Antihistamines and decongestants help manage symptoms of allergies and provide short-term relief from congestion.
7. Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Certain lifestyle adjustments and home remedies can complement medical treatments for nasal polyps.
- Avoid triggers. Reduce exposure to allergens, pollutants and irritants to prevent inflammation.
- Humidifiers. Using a humidifier can keep the air moist, reducing nasal dryness and irritation.
- Balanced diet. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids, may help reduce overall inflammation.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent symptoms like nasal congestion, loss of smell or sinus infections that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, consult an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing nasal polyps effectively and preventing complications. You can also ask them about different treatment options for nasal polyps to find what works best for your needs.
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