NASAL POLYPS

[jooley77]

Hi I have allergic rhinitis and Asthma, my asthma is under control, however I have nasal polyps as well as allergic rhinitis and although I am taking steroids and have taken many different types over the past couple of years, I have no smell whatsoever and hardly any taste!! What can I do?? I am trying things like putting tea tree oil up each nostril to 'burn' the polyps off?? Please help, I am at my wits end.

[Sarah Buchan]

Hello,

thank you for your post. I am sorry to hear that these symptoms have caused you such distress.

It is thought that nasal polyps develop as a result of inflammation of the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. This results in swelling of the lining, hanging down from the passages.
Nasal polyps can be difficult to get rid of permanently but steroid medications can often help to shrink them. Corticosteroid nasal drops and sprays shrink the polyps however they are only usually prescribed short term due to side effects including irritation of the inside of the nose, sore throat and nose bleeds.
If symptoms do not improve whilst using a steroid spray or drops, a short course of steroid tablets may be prescribed by your GP. If these too have shown no improvement to the polyps, your GP may recommend surgical removal.

I would urge you not to use tea-tree up your nose to burn the polyps as this will cause more irritation but will not help the symptoms. Please arrange an appointment with your GP to discuss your symptoms and an appropriate treatment to aid relief.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further questions.

Kindest regards,

Sarah