Nasal polyps are a fairly common health issue and are related to allergy, asthma, and cystic fibrosis among various factors. Almost 4% of the population is affected by this issue, which may sometimes require surgical intervention. Since the issue lacks a proper etiology, it can be difficult to diagnose. Here are some common symptoms and warning signs of nasal polyps.

Runny nose
Individuals affected by nasal polyps tend to have a runny nose. Still, they may not always indicate a polyps issue as a runny nose is a common symptom for other similar conditions like cold or sinus issues.

Stuffiness
Nasal polyps affect the nasal mucosa and are a cyst-like growth. This can block the nasal passages, leading to a feeling of stuffiness for those suffering from polyps.

Postnasal drip
Postnasal drip is the extra mucus created in the nasal and throat glands, accumulated in the back of the throat. It may also drip down from the nose through the throat. People with nasal polyps may experience postnasal drip, which is characterized by a constant desire to clear the throat, sore throat, and bad breath.

Anosmia
Anosmia refers to a loss of smell. This loss could be partial, temporary, or permanent. Nasal polyps can cause blocking of the nasal passage, hence, creating a hindrance for the air to pass through it, reducing the sense of smell. Loss of smell could also be due to many other reasons, including any bone deformities in the nose and other neurological issues. Such patients are always advised to keep fire alarms in their homes and maintain them regularly as they may not be able to smell fire, gas leak, or anything similar.

Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder during which those suffering from it tend to stop breathing while asleep. Individuals with nasal polyps may experience obstructive sleep apnea, a type of sleep apnea in which the breathing stops and starts abruptly during sleep.

Mouth breathing
The feeling of stuffiness acts as a hindrance to breathing, leading to individuals breathing through the mouth. Mouth breathing is one of the symptoms and warning signs of nasal polyps, which is also associated with its other symptoms. For example, mouth breathing can get worse if the patient is also experiencing due to sleep apnea. This is also one of the symptoms of nasal polyps that could go unnoticed.

Loss of taste
Individuals experiencing anosmia may also experience a loss of taste. Some basic tastes can be differentiated based on the tongue’s sensory functions, but there may be an impediment due to the loss of smell when it comes to complex flavors.

Aches in the facial area
Patients with nasal polyps may also experience facial pains, headaches, and pain in the upper teeth.