Nasal polyps are soft, fleshy growths on the lining of nasal passages or sinuses. Although these growths are noncancerous and painless, they can cause a variety of symptoms, including chronic stuffy nose, loss of sense of smell and taste, and postnasal drip. Sometimes, polyps can block the flow of air and the draining of fluids from the nasal cavity, leading to complications. This article looks at the various compilations associated with nasal polyps.

1. Obstructive sleep apnea
When polyps occupy a large part of the nasal passages and block airflow, the individual may only be able to breathe through the mouth. This can lead to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Other common signs and symptoms include loud snoring, waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat, morning headache, and nighttime sweating. Nasal surgery to remove polyps is one of the most effective ways to treat obstructive sleep apnea.

2. Sinus infections
Frequent or chronic sinus infections are the most common complications associated with nasal polyps. It causes the tissues in the sinuses to become inflamed and blocked for long periods. Typically, a sinus infection is considered chronic if it persists for more than 12 weeks. Symptoms include yellow or green-colored discharge from the nose; tenderness and discomfort around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks; headaches; and ear pain. Treatment commonly includes using nasal sprays to reduce the size of polyps. Sometimes, sinus surgery is required to remove the polyps blocking the nasal passages.

3. Orbital cellulitis
Orbital cellulitis is the infection of the tissue around the eyes. It occurs when the bacteria from the sinus infection or sinusitis spreads to the fat and muscles surrounding the eye socket. Pain and swelling are the two most common symptoms of the disease. Other symptoms include difficulty or inability to open the affected eye, discharge from the infected eye, and vision problems. Orbital cellulitis can eventually cause permanent vision loss. It is vital to treat nasal polyps at an early stage to avoid such serious complications.

4. Meningitis
Meningitis is another complication associated with nasal polyps. It refers to infection of the tissue around the brain and spinal cord. In people with nasal polyps, meningitis occurs when bacteria from the sinus infections enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain and spinal cord. Potential signs and symptoms include fever, chills, stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and lethargy. Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening, so it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Doctors usually treat the disease with intravenous antibiotics.

5. Worsening asthma
Although nasal polyps do not cause asthma, they can certainly make it worse. Studies have also found that a significant number of people with asthma have nasal polyps. This condition is referred to as nasal polyps and comorbid asthma (NPCA) in medical terms. These polyps inflame the upper airways, making it even more difficult to breathe with asthma. To experience some relief, it is crucial to visit a doctor and get the nasal polyps removed.