Understanding nasal polyps and how to get help

Overview

Okechukwu Okonkwo Consultant ENT Surgeon

If you’ve been struggling with a blocked nose that never seems to clear, poor sense of smell, or a feeling of congestion deep inside your face, you might have nasal polyps. These are soft, painless swellings that grow inside the nose or sinuses. They are not cancer, but they can cause big problems with breathing and day-to-day comfort.

What are nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are small, jelly-like growths that develop when the lining of the nose and sinuses becomes inflamed over a long period. They often occur in both nostrils and can range from tiny swellings to larger clusters that completely block airflow.

Common symptoms include:

Constantly blocked or runny nose.
Poor sense of smell and taste.
Post-nasal drip (mucus running down the throat).
Snoring or disturbed sleep.
A feeling of pressure in the face.

Many people live with polyps for years before they’re diagnosed.

Self-help remedies that may ease symptoms

While nasal polyps usually need medical treatment, some measures can help reduce inflammation and keep your nose clearer:

Saline sprays or rinses: These wash out mucus and allergens, helping reduce irritation.

Over-the-counter steroid nasal sprays: Used regularly, these sprays can shrink small polyps and reduce swelling. They need to be taken daily, not just when symptoms flare.

Short-course nasal decongestants: A spray or drop can open the nose for up to 5 days, but they should never be used long-term as they can worsen blockage.

Managing allergies: If you suffer with hay fever or dust allergies, controlling these may improve your symptoms.

These steps won’t always remove polyps, but they can make a noticeable difference.

When should you see your doctor?

You should book a GP appointment if:

You’ve had a blocked nose for more than 3 weeks.
Your sense of smell is persistently reduced or gone.
You are snoring heavily or waking at night because of blocked breathing.
Over-the-counter sprays are not working.

Your GP may prescribe stronger steroid sprays or tablets, but if your symptoms continue, a referral to an ENT specialist is the best next step.

Why see a specialist?

An ENT consultant with expertise in rhinology (nose and sinus conditions) can provide a full assessment and advanced treatment options, including:

Nasal endoscopy (a tiny camera to see inside the nose and sinuses).
Tailored medical therapy beyond what your GP can prescribe.
Scans if more detail is needed.
Day-case minimally invasive surgery to remove larger polyps when medicines aren’t enough.

At Nuffield Health, patients can see an experienced ENT surgeon specialising in nose and sinus problems without a long wait. With the right treatment, many people regain their sense of smell, breathe freely, and enjoy uninterrupted sleep again.

The bottom line

Nasal polyps are common and treatable. Simple measures may help, but if your nose feels permanently blocked or your quality of life is affected, it’s worth seeking specialist help. Relief is possible – and you don’t need to put up with symptoms long-term.

Last updated Friday 9 January 2026

First published on Friday 9 January 2026

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