Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that develop along the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They often appear smooth and rounded and may resemble grapes or small teardrops. Nasal polyps are usually painless, but when they grow large or cluster together, they can block airflow and lead to breathing difficulty, reduced sense of smell, and recurring sinus infections.
At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our team evaluates and treats nasal polyps for patients across Alberta using personalized care plans.
Nasal polyps typically form as a result of ongoing inflammation within the nose or sinuses. This chronic inflammation can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions and may trigger changes in the nasal lining that lead to polyp growth.
Conditions commonly associated with nasal polyps include:
The exact reason why some people develop nasal polyps and others do not is not fully understood. Research suggests that differences in immune response and inflammatory pathways may play a role.
Nasal polyps can occur in people of any age and gender, but they are more commonly seen in young to middle aged adults. They may develop anywhere within the nasal passages or sinuses, though they most often appear near the areas where the sinuses drain into the nose.
Nasal polyps are often associated with allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis, which involves inflammation of the nasal passages or sinuses lasting longer than twelve weeks.
Common symptoms may include:
At ENT Specialists of Alberta, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for nasal polyps to help patients throughout Alberta breathe more comfortably and improve overall sinus health.
Treatment for nasal polyps depends on their size, severity, and the symptoms they cause. At ENT Specialists of Alberta, we provide a range of medical and surgical treatment options for patients across Alberta to help reduce symptoms and improve long term sinus health.
The first line of treatment for nasal polyps often includes corticosteroid nasal sprays. These sprays are used to reduce inflammation and shrink the size of the polyps. In some cases, they may help improve breathing and reduce congestion.
If nasal sprays alone do not provide sufficient relief, oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for a short period of time. In more severe cases, injectable corticosteroids may be considered to further reduce inflammation.
While medications can help control symptoms, nasal polyps often return once treatment is stopped. For many patients, medication alone does not fully eliminate the polyps or prevent recurrence.
When nasal polyps do not respond to medical treatment or continue to cause significant symptoms, surgery may be recommended. Endoscopic sinus surgery allows the surgeon to remove nasal polyps and address the areas of inflammation within the nose and sinuses.
This procedure is performed using a small camera and specialized instruments, allowing for precise removal of polyps while preserving healthy tissue. Endoscopic sinus surgery is typically done as an outpatient procedure and does not usually require nasal packing. Most patients experience minimal swelling and can return to normal activities within a short period of time.
Advanced imaging and surgical guidance may be used during surgery to provide a detailed view of the sinus anatomy. This helps improve accuracy and supports better surgical outcomes.
At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our experienced surgeons provide personalized care and advanced treatment options to help patients throughout Alberta find lasting relief from nasal polyps.
If nasal congestion, sinus pressure, or loss of smell is affecting your quality of life, contact ENT Specialists of Alberta today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.
For patients who experience recurring nasal polyps, a non surgical treatment option may be available. At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our specialists offer the SINUVA sinus implant to help reduce nasal polyps, congestion, and obstruction without the need for surgery.
The SINUVA sinus implant has been shown to decrease polyp size and improve nasal breathing, making it an option for select patients across Alberta who meet specific criteria.
SINUVA is a small sinus implant designed to treat nasal polyps without surgery. It is placed during a routine office visit using topical or local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The implant is gently positioned into the sinus cavity through the nostril, with no external incisions required.
The SINUVA implant provides a dual approach to treatment:
By delivering medication directly where inflammation occurs, SINUVA helps reduce polyp growth and nasal blockage over time.
Patients treated with the SINUVA sinus implant may experience:
In clinical studies, the most commonly reported side effects included headache, nosebleeds, asthma symptoms, bronchitis, and upper respiratory or middle ear infections. SINUVA is approved for adults eighteen years of age and older who have nasal polyps and have previously undergone ethmoid sinus surgery.
Your ear nose and throat specialist will determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you based on your medical history and current symptoms.
At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our team is committed to offering advanced treatment options that help patients throughout Alberta breathe more comfortably and improve long term sinus health.
If you would like to learn more about treatment options for nasal polyps, including the SINUVA sinus implant, contact ENT Specialists of Alberta today to schedule a consultation.
SINUVA should not be used if you have a known sensitivity to mometasone furoate or any of the ingredients in the implant. Reactions related to steroid use, such as rash, itching, or swelling, have been reported. If you experience symptoms that may suggest steroid related effects, including adrenal suppression or features of Cushing syndrome, contact your ear nose and throat specialist immediately.
The SINUVA sinus implant is made from materials designed to gradually soften over time. As nasal polyps decrease in size and the implant softens, it may naturally come out of the nose on its own or during actions such as sneezing or forceful nose blowing. The implant may be removed by your physician up to ninety days after placement or earlier if clinically necessary. The safety of repeat placement has not been fully established.
As with other sinus procedures, there are potential risks associated with placing or removing the SINUVA implant. These procedures should only be performed by physicians trained in ear nose and throat care. Your specialist will discuss possible risks with you and monitor the surrounding nasal tissue for signs of bleeding, irritation, infection, or perforation. SINUVA should not be used in patients with active nasal ulcers or recent nasal trauma.
In clinical studies, the most commonly reported side effects included headache, nosebleeds, asthma related symptoms, bronchitis, lightheadedness, and upper respiratory or middle ear infections.
If you experience heavy nasal bleeding, signs of infection, or symptoms suggesting the implant has shifted, such as throat irritation or a choking sensation, seek medical care immediately. Close monitoring is also recommended for patients with vision changes or a history of increased eye pressure, glaucoma, or cataracts.
At ENT Specialists of Alberta, our experienced team carefully evaluates each patient and provides clear guidance so you can make informed decisions about your care and comfort.
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