Nasal polyps are painless and noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passage or sinuses. They are tear-drop or grape shaped. They are mostly painless in nature. Small polyps don’t show any symptoms; however, larger ones can obstruct the nasal passage and lead to breathing problems, a loss of the sense of smell and frequent infections. Commonly, they occur in the area where the upper sinuses drain into your nose (the point where the eyes, nose, and cheekbones meet).

The exact cause is still unknown; however, some of the causes could be the following:

• Aspirin Sensitivity
  People allergic to aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prone to develop nasal polyps.
• Age
  Anyone can get nasal polyps, but it is most commonly found in adults, over the age of 40. Children under the age of 10 rarely suffer from nasal polyps. Men are twice as likely to get affected with nasal polyps than women.
• Genetics
  In some cases, genetics plays a major role in the occurrence of nasal polyps. This may be due to the way the genes cause the mucosa to react to inflammation. Individuals whose parents have had polyps are at a higher risk of having them.
• Asthma
  Studies show patients with asthma are more likely to have nasal polyps. Patients with allergic fungal sinusitis can also develop nasal polyps.
• Cystic Fibrosis
  It is a genetic disorder that results in abnormally thick and sticky fluids in the body, this also includes mucus from the nasal and sinus lining. People suffering from cystic fibrosis are at a higher risk of developing nasal polyps.
• Churg-Strauss Syndrome
  This is a rare disease that causes inflammation in the blood vessels. Research shows that patients suffering from this syndrome often get nasal polyps.
• Vitamin D deficiency
  Vitamin D deficient people are also prone to nasal polyps. Studies show vitamin D3 deficiency is associated with sinus tissue proliferation in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Sometimes it’s difficult to make out, but the given list of symptoms and warning signs of Nasal Polyps will definitely be helpful.

• Runny nose and blocked nose
  This is one of the most common symptoms and warning signs of nasal polyps. Patients with nasal polyps have a runny nose and they also feel that they always have a cold. The person will always have a stuffy nose and might find it hard to breathe. This also causes sleeping problems, such as obstructive sleep apnea.
• Postnasal drip
  Patients with nasal polyps will have a feeling of mucus continually running down the back of the throat. Throat congestion can also occur.
• A loss of the sensation of smell and sense of taste
  A person with nasal polyps will have no sense of smell and taste. This doesn’t get better even after treatment.
• Pain in the face
  Patients with nasal polyps might feel some sort of pain and pressure in the face and forehead. Some patients also suffer from headaches.

If you notice any of the symptoms and warning signs of Nasal Polyps, consult your doctor. Medications can shrink or eliminate polyps; however, surgery is required in some cases.