Emotional
Receiving a diagnosis of nasal polyps can bring up different emotions. You may feel relief after learning what is causing your symptoms. However, you may also have other feelings that are more negative. It is normal to experience a wide range of emotions after a medical diagnosis.
You may feel:
RelievedSadWorried AngryAshamedScared
Physical
Although treatment for nasal polyps usually involves medication and surgery, there are other things you can do to manage the condition. You should talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns you may have and ask for recommendations about lifestyle changes you can make.
Remove Allergens
You may be able to prevent new nasal polyps or control them by eliminating allergens in your environment and diet. Talk to your healthcare provider about having allergy tests and evaluate your lifestyle to make changes.
You may be allergic to:
Fungi Aspirin Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen and naproxen
Sometimes allergens in the environment can irritate your nose and sinuses, which can worsen your condition. Pay attention to how you feel around certain allergens and avoid them if possible.
Avoid the following irritants:
Tobacco smoke Chemical fumesDustDebris
Use a Nasal Rinse
You can use a nasal rinse—such as a saltwater or saline spray—in your nose. A rinse may remove allergens and irritants from your nasal passages while moistening them. It may also help mucus flow easier and stop inflammation.
Nasal rinses are available over-the-counter in:
WashesSpraysNeti potsSqueeze bottles
It is important to use distilled and sterile water in any nasal rinse. You will need to clean any device you use to wash the nasal passages after each use.
Reduce Alcohol Use
Research reveals that alcohol consumption can make nasal polyps and other sinus problems worse.
You may want to reduce or eliminate alcohol from your diet to see if your condition improves.
Use a Humidifier
A humidifier adds moisture to the air and your sinuses. Using a humidifier in your home may help you:
Breathe easierHelp mucus drain from your sinusesLower the risk of sinus blockagesReduce inflammation
Make sure you clean the humidifier regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Try Breathing Exercises
Nasal polyps can make it more difficult to breathe through your nose. Research shows that a yoga breathing exercise called Bhramari pranayama may help.
Get Enough Probiotics
Scientists found that your microbiome or the microorganisms that live inside of you can affect your sinus health. In addition to taking probiotic supplements, you can eat probiotic-rich foods like:
YogurtSauerkrautKefirKimchiArtichokesAsparagusKombucha
Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements or making any drastic changes to your diet. Some vitamins and supplements can interfere with medications.
Social
One important aspect of coping with a diagnosis is reaching out to others for help. The emotional support from friends, family, and others can have a large impact on how you handle things. You want to discuss your condition with people who are close to you and who you can trust.
Keep your friends and family informed about your condition and treatment plans. If you decide to have surgery for nasal polyps, you may need their support before, during, and after the operation.
Practical
Finding the right health team to help you manage and treat nasal polyps is important. Although you may start the diagnosis process by seeing your primary care physician, eventually you may need to see specialists like an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.
It is crucial to find specialists who understand your condition and know how to treat it. You should lways feel comfortable to get a second opinion or talk to a different healthcare provider.
