Nasal Polyps Treatments That Work
These growths are often caused by long-term inflammation in your sinuses, leading to a stuffy nose, difficulty breathing and a loss of smell. Mepolizumab (Nucala) can help. It is used to treat nasal polyps, particularly in individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).
Mepolizumab (Nucala)
Mepolizumab (Nucala) is another treatment option. This is a biologic medication, which means it’s made from living cells. Mepolizumab works by lowering the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that causes inflammation and is linked to the growth of nasal polyps.
By reducing eosinophils, Mepolizumab can help shrink polyps and reduce symptoms like nasal congestion. It is given as an injection once a month and is typically used for people with severe polyps or those who haven’t found relief from other treatments.
Oral Steroids
For more serious cases, oral steroids like prednisone might be prescribed. These steroids are taken as pills and work throughout the body to reduce inflammation, including in the sinuses. Oral steroids can be effective at quickly reducing the size of nasal polyps, but they are usually only used for short periods because they can have side effects. Your doctor will help you figure out the best dosage and duration for your treatment.
Surgery
If other treatments don’t work, surgery might be the next option. The most common type of surgery for nasal polyps is called endoscopic sinus surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera inserted through your nostrils to remove the polyps. There are no cuts on the outside of your face, and most patients can go home the same day. Surgery is typically reserved for people with large polyps or those who have trouble breathing despite other treatments.
After surgery, your doctor will likely recommend using nasal steroid sprays to keep the polyps from coming back. While surgery can help, it’s important to continue following your doctor’s advice to avoid future problems.
Nasal Sprays
One of the most effective treatments for nasal polyps is nasal steroid sprays. These sprays help reduce the inflammation inside the nose and can shrink polyps. Fluticasone and mometasone are two common types of nasal steroid sprays that doctors often recommend. By using the spray directly in your nose, you can reduce swelling and congestion. It may take a few weeks for you to notice improvements, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for the best results.
Other Ways to Manage Nasal Polyps
In addition to medications and surgery, there are some things you can do at home to help manage nasal polyps:
- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in your home can help keep the air moist, preventing your nasal passages from drying out.
- Treating allergies: If your polyps are related to allergies, your doctor might suggest allergy medications to help reduce the inflammation.
- Saline nasal irrigation: Rinsing your nose with saltwater can help clear out mucus and allergens, making it easier to breathe.
When to See a Doctor
If you have a stuffy nose that doesn’t go away, trouble breathing through your nose or a loss of smell, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. These could be signs of nasal polyps. A doctor can help figure out what’s causing your symptoms and recommend the best treatment options for you. Early treatment can help prevent the polyps from becoming larger and causing more problems.
Treating Nasal Polyps: Top Solutions
Several treatments for nasal polyps can help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Mepolizumab (Nucala), nasal steroid sprays, oral steroids and surgery are all options that your doctor may recommend. It’s important to work with your doctor to find the best treatment plan for your situation. With the right care, you can breathe easier and feel better.