Polyps, Nasal

Nasal polyps are polypoidal masses arising mainly from the mucous membranes of the nose and paranasal sinuses. They are overgrowths of the mucosa that frequently accompany allergic rhinitis. They are freely moveable and non-tender.

Nasal Polyps

Symptoms of polyps include nasal block, sinusitis, anosmia (that is, loss of smell), and secondary infection leading to headache. Despite removal by surgery, nasal polyps are found to recur in about 70% of cases. Sinus surgery requires great amount of precision as this involves risk of damage to orbit matter.

Allergies

An allergy is a disorder of the immune system often also referred to as atopy. Allergic reactions occur to normally harmless environmental substances known as allergens; these reactions are acquired, predictable, and rapid. Strictly, allergy is one of four forms of hypersensitivity and is called type I (or immediate) hypersensitivity. It is characterized by excessive activation of certain white blood cells called mast cells and basophils by a type of antibody known as IgE, resulting in an extreme inflammatory response. Common allergic reactions include eczema, hives, hay fever, asthma, food allergies, and reactions to the venom of stinging insects such as wasps and bees.