Nasal polyps are non-cancerous formations in the nasal passages or sinus lining. They can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and impaired sense of smell. Treatment includes medications to reduce inflammation or, in some cases, surgical removal of polyps. The assessment of the Polygenic Risk Score for nasal polyps is based on examining 20 gene polymorphisms.
Genetic testing for nasal polyps is included along with 12 other diseases in the Genetic Screening for Sensory Organs and Skin Diseases, Polygenic Risk Score, as well as in the Genetic Screening for Neoplasms and Precancerous Malformations, Polygenic Risk Score, along with 19 other diseases.
Causes and non-genetic risk factors
The condition associated with the presence of polyps is called nasal polyposis. These polyps can have a very variable size, and, on many occasions, they do not represent a medical attention problem. However, sometimes, their size can cause them to obstruct the airway and require surgery. The causes of their appearance are not entirely clear, but some factors can lead to their appearance, such as the following:
- Although they can appear at any age, they are more frequent in young adults
- Α pathology that causes inflammation of the respiratory tract
- Sensitivity to aspirin, as it can worsen chronic inflammation of the nose and sinuses
- Allergic sinusitis
- Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that increases the viscosity of secretions
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Some diseases, such as Churg-Strauss syndrome
Symptoms
If they are small, polyps will most likely have no associated symptoms. However, multiple growths or a large polyp can block the nasal passages and/or sinuses, causing symptoms such as:
- Runny nose with more fluid secretions
- Constant congestion
- Decreased sense of taste and smell
- Ηeadache
- Sensation of pressure on the face
- Snoring
- Frequent nosebleeds
Prevention
Because the exact causes of nasal polyps are unknown, there is no practical way to prevent their formation. However, some strategies help reduce the likelihood of developing them:
- Treat allergies and asthma
- Avoid substances that irritate the nasal mucosa, such as allergens, tobacco smoke, certain chemicals, or dust
- Good hygiene habits, such as good hand washing, to avoid respiratory infections
- Maintain a humid environment in your home. This favors the flow of mucus and avoids obstruction and inflammation of the sinuses
