How do nasal polyps form?
Nasal polyps are a common nasal disease characterized by benign growths of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity or sinuses. Although it is not cancerous, it may cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, headaches, and loss of smell, affecting quality of life. So, how do nasal polyps form? This article will combine the hot medical topics of the past 10 days to provide you with a detailed analysis of the causes, symptoms, and prevention and treatment methods of nasal polyps.
1. Causes of nasal polyps
The formation of nasal polyps is related to many factors, including the following categories:
| Influencing factors | Specific instructions |
|---|---|
| chronic inflammation | Long-term inflammation such as rhinitis and sinusitis irritates the mucous membrane, leading to tissue edema and hyperplasia. |
| allergic reaction | Patients with allergic rhinitis are prone to mucosal hyperplasia due to an overreaction of the immune system. |
| genetic factors | People with a family history of nasal polyps are at higher risk. |
| environmental factors | Nasal polyps may be caused by air pollution, smoking, or long-term exposure to chemicals. |
| Immune dysfunction | Diseases such as asthma and aspirin intolerance may occur with nasal polyps. |
2. Common symptoms of nasal polyps
Symptoms of nasal polyps vary depending on size and location, but the following are typical symptoms:
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| nasal congestion | Unilateral or bilateral persistent nasal obstruction, which may worsen when lying on your back. |
| runny nose | Mucous or purulent secretions may flow back into the throat. |
| loss of sense of smell | Polyps block the olfactory area, causing a decrease or loss of smell. |
| facial pressure | Involvement of the sinuses may cause pain or headache. |
| snoring | Blocked airways may cause sleep breathing problems. |
3. Diagnosis and treatment of nasal polyps
According to recent medical guidelines, the diagnosis and treatment process for nasal polyps is as follows:
| steps | method |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis | 1. Nasal endoscopy 2. CT scan 3. Allergen testing (if necessary) |
| drug treatment | 1. Nasal corticosteroid spray 2. Oral hormones (short term) 3. Anti-allergic drugs (when combined with allergies) |
| surgical treatment | 1. Endoscopic nasal polypectomy 2. Sinus opening (for patients with recurrence) |
| Postoperative care | 1. Regular nasal irrigation 2. Long-term follow-up to prevent recurrence |
4. How to prevent nasal polyps?
In line with the latest health advice, preventive measures include:
1.Control rhinitis/sinusitis:Treat upper respiratory tract infections promptly to avoid chronic inflammation.
2.Reduce allergen exposure:Keep indoors clean and wear a mask during pollen season.
3.Enhance immunity:Eat a balanced diet, have a regular schedule, and supplement with vitamin D (recent studies have shown that it is associated with polyp recurrence).
4.Quit smoking:Smoking significantly increases the risk of nasal polyps.
5.Nasal care:Saline irrigation can reduce mucosal irritation.
5. Recent hot research and prospects
According to new findings published in medical journals in the past 10 days:
1.Microbiome Research:An imbalance in the nasal flora may be associated with polyp formation, and probiotic therapies are being trialled.
2.Biologically targeted drugs:Monoclonal antibodies targeting the IL-4/IL-13 pathway (such as dupilumab) have been shown to reduce relapse rates in clinical trials.
3.Artificial Intelligence Applications:AI-assisted CT image analysis can improve the early detection rate of small polyps.
In summary, the formation of nasal polyps is the result of multiple factors, and early intervention and standardized treatment are crucial. If you have related symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible.
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