The non-cancerous growths that occur in the lining of the nose and the nasal cavity are known as nasal polyps. These fleshy growths can vary in size and color. They can grow in one or both nostrils and can cause a number of issues, including trouble breathing, a runny nose, or post nasal drip. Here’s some information on the early symptoms and risk factors of nasal polyps so that you can manage the condition.

Early Symptoms of Nasal Polyps
Some people with nasal polyps might show no signs and symptoms of this condition; however, others may face the following issues.

1. Persistent blocked or runny nose
These growths in the nasal passage could cause a chronic runny nose as though you have a cold. In some cases, it could result in a blocked nose that can cause sleeping issues such as snoring. In severe cases, obstructive sleep apnea can also develop.

2. Loss of smell and taste
Large nasal polyps can have an impact on your sense of smell and taste. Although, your sense of smell can improve once you have completed the treatment for nasal polyps, your sense of taste might not improve.

3. Post nasal drip
Due to the growth and inflammation in the nasal cavity, you can experience post nasal drip or the feeling of mucus flowing down the back of the throat.

4. Headaches
Some people could experience headaches or pain or pressure in the face, sinuses, or top teeth.

Risk Factors of Nasal Polyps
Some of the factors that increase your chances of developing nasal polyps are as follows:

1. Age and genetics
Although nasal polyps can affect a person of any age, it is a common issue among young and middle-aged adults. Also, those whose parents have had nasal polyps are at a greater risk of developing them.

2. Health conditions
Certain health conditions such as cystic fibrosis, which affects the organs, and Churg-Strauss syndrome, which causes inflammation in the blood vessels, could make you more susceptible to nasal polyps.

3. Conditions that affect the nasal passage
Rhinitis or rhinosinusitis and allergic fungal sinusitis that causes chronic inflammation in the nasal passage could put you at risk of developing nasal polyps. Hay fever is another risk factor of the condition. Asthma can also increase your chances of developing nasal polyps as it  causes the airways to swell.

4. Aspirin sensitivity
Individuals who are sensitive or have an allergic reaction to aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs of developing nasal polyps have a higher chance of developing nasal polyps.

One of the best ways of preventing nasal polyps from occurring is to avoid substances that can irritate the nasal passage and cause swelling. This includes tobacco smoke, dust, fine debris, and chemical fumes.