Nasal Polyps in North Richland Hills
Nasal polyps are chronic, non-cancerous growths in the nasal passages or sinuses that can cause persistent congestion, loss of smell, and breathing difficulties. North Hills ENT in North Richland Hills offers a full range of treatments from medical management to minimally invasive surgery.
What Causes Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps develop from chronic inflammation of the sinonasal mucosa. They are often associated with allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), and cystic fibrosis. A dysregulated type 2 immune response driving chronic eosinophilic inflammation is now understood to be the primary mechanism in most adult polyp cases.
Signs and Symptoms
- Chronic nasal congestion unresponsive to typical allergy medications
- Significantly reduced or absent sense of smell (most characteristic symptom)
- Reduced taste
- Postnasal drip and runny nose
- Facial pressure and headache
- Snoring and sleep disturbance
- Recurrent or chronic sinusitis
Medical Treatment
First-line treatment for nasal polyps includes intranasal and oral corticosteroids to shrink the polyps and reduce inflammation. For patients with significant type 2 inflammation, FDA-approved biologic medications — particularly dupilumab (Dupixent) — have proven highly effective at dramatically shrinking polyps and restoring smell without surgery.
Surgical Treatment
When medical management is insufficient, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) with polypectomy is recommended. This outpatient procedure removes polyps and opens blocked sinus passages using an endoscope, restoring drainage and airflow. Ongoing medical management post-surgery is essential to prevent recurrence.
Long-Term Management
Nasal polyps are a chronic condition with a tendency to recur. Long-term management involves regular follow-up, ongoing nasal steroid sprays, saline irrigation, and treatment of underlying triggers like allergies and asthma. With proper management, most patients can maintain significant symptom control.
Expert Nasal Polyp Care in North Richland Hills
Contact North Hills ENT at 817-859-8999 to schedule a consultation with our ENT specialist and develop a personalized treatment plan. We serve patients throughout DFW including North Richland Hills, Fort Worth, Hurst, Keller, and Southlake.