Polyps in the nose and sinuses

If you have nasal congestion or a tendency to nasal allergy, it may be due to polyps in the nose.

What are polyps?

Polyps in the nose are chronically swollen nasal mucosa, and mucus that has become trapped in small pockets. This creates small protrusions on the mucosa and causes poor space in the nose, while the sense of smell may disappear because the polyps press on the fibres of the olfactory nerve. The polyps often also extend into the sinuses, which can also cause space problems and pressure discomfort there.  
 
Nasal-sinus polyps are usually a benign but chronic condition that requires treatment. In rare cases, polyps may prove to be more aggressive or malignant.

Symptoms of polyps in the nose

• Nasal congestion
• Reduced or absent sense of smell
• Heaviness in the head
• Snoring and poor night sleep
• Frequent sinus infections
• Known nasal allergy

If you recognise some of these problems, it may be that you have polyps in the nose and/or in the sinuses. 
 
This should be investigated further and can be treated.

Examination

We offer a consultation with a consultant in our ear, nose and throat clinic with a review of your symptoms and examination of your ears, nose and throat. If there is suspicion of polyps in the sinuses, a CT scan of your sinuses will be offered. Sampling of the polyps will often be necessary. 
 
Based on your symptoms and the conclusion of the examination, we will advise you on what can be done.  
 
If you also have allergy symptoms in the form of sneezing, coughing or affected breathing, we can also offer an allergological investigation with our allergist and pulmonary medicine specialist.

Treatment

The initial treatment is prescription nasal spray, which usually causes the polyps to shrink. If the polyps are very extensive and do not respond to medical treatment, surgical removal of the polyps under general anaesthesia will be considered. 

Same doctor and rapid treatment

Whether the symptoms have appeared acutely or are of a longer-lasting nature, you should be seen by a consultant in ear, nose and throat (ENT). Our consultants are ready to help you, so you can quickly receive the correct diagnosis, whether you are a private patient, have health insurance or are referred through the public waiting-time guarantee.

All examinations can take place at CPH Privathospital, and you therefore have the same experienced consultant throughout the entire pathway.