Why Can Nasal Polyps Affect Your Sense of Smell?

What Are Nasal Polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop along the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. They commonly occur on both sides of the nose and may develop individually or in clusters. Smaller polyps often appear teardrop-shaped, while larger growths may resemble peeled grapes.

Although nasal polyps are noncancerous, they can contribute to nasal obstruction, reduced sense of smell, and impaired sinus drainage. The severity of symptoms depends on their size, location, and associated inflammation.

Some individuals have small polyps that cause few or no noticeable symptoms, while others experience persistent congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose.

Why and How Can Nasal Polyps Affect Your Sense of Smell?

Nasal polyps may interfere with the sense of smell in two primary ways.

1. Nasal Polyps Can Physically Block Airflow to Smell Receptors

Your sense of smell depends on odor molecules reaching specialized sensory cells in the olfactory region, located high inside the nasal cavity.

When nasal polyps grow larger or develop in clusters, they may obstruct the nasal passages and limit airflow to this area.

As a result, fewer odor molecules may reach the smell receptors, making it more difficult to detect certain scents.

The extent of smell loss varies depending on the location of the polyps and how much they interfere with airflow.

2. Chronic Inflammation May Affect Smell Function

Nasal polyps are commonly associated with chronic inflammation of the nasal and sinus linings.

This inflammation may affect the olfactory lining and interfere with the normal function of smell receptors, even when airflow is not severely obstructed.

Because both physical blockage and inflammation can contribute to reduced smell, symptoms may persist even when the nasal passages do not feel completely blocked.

Other conditions can also affect smell, including viral infections, allergies, chronic sinusitis, and certain neurological conditions.

An ENT evaluation can help determine whether nasal polyps, inflammation, or another underlying condition may be contributing to your symptoms.

A sudden, unexplained, or persistent change in smell should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Nasal Polyps?

Symptoms vary from person to person. Small nasal polyps may cause few or no noticeable problems, while larger growths or associated inflammation can contribute to more persistent symptoms.

Common symptoms may include:

• Nasal congestion or blockage
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Facial or sinus pressure
• A runny nose
• Postnasal drip, or mucus draining down the back of the throat
• Headaches or facial discomfort
• Reduced or lost sense of smell
• Changes in flavor perception
• Snoring or disrupted sleep

Nasal polyps are also associated with chronic rhinosinusitis and may occur in individuals with asthma.

Some patients experience recurring sinus symptoms or worsening respiratory symptoms when underlying inflammation is not adequately controlled.

However, nasal polyps do not necessarily cause asthma attacks or sleep apnea directly. These conditions may coexist and require separate evaluation.

What Causes Nasal Polyps?

The exact reasons nasal polyps develop in some individuals and not others are not fully understood.

However, they are strongly associated with persistent inflammation in the tissues lining the nasal passages and sinuses.

Certain conditions may be associated with an increased likelihood of developing nasal polyps, including:

• Allergies
• Chronic sinusitis
• Asthma
• Cystic fibrosis

Not everyone with these conditions develops nasal polyps, and not every person with nasal polyps has allergies.

An ENT specialist can evaluate symptoms, medical history, and examination findings to identify possible contributing factors.

How Are Nasal Polyps Treated?

Treatment depends on the size and location of the polyps, the severity of symptoms, the extent of inflammation, and the patient’s response to previous care.

The goal is generally to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and address nasal or sinus obstruction when appropriate.

Medications

Medications are often used to help control inflammation and improve symptoms associated with nasal polyps.

Depending on the patient’s diagnosis and medical history, options may include:

• Saline nasal rinses: May help clear mucus and irritants from the nasal passages, although they do not directly remove polyps.
• Intranasal corticosteroids: May help reduce inflammation and, in some patients, decrease polyp size.
• Oral corticosteroids: May be prescribed for short periods in selected cases, with consideration of potential side effects.
• Biologic medications: Treatments such as dupilumab may be considered for certain patients with inadequately controlled chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
• Antibiotics: May be prescribed when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed, but they do not directly treat nasal polyps.

The effectiveness of medication varies, and treatment decisions should be based on individual clinical needs.

Surgery

If symptoms remain significant despite appropriate medical management, an ENT specialist may consider surgery.

Surgical options may include:

Polypectomy

Polypectomy involves the surgical removal of nasal polyps using specialized instruments.

The procedure may help relieve obstruction and improve access to the nasal and sinus passages in selected patients.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is performed through the nostrils using an endoscope and specialized surgical instruments.

Depending on the patient’s condition, the surgeon may remove nasal polyps, enlarge affected sinus drainage pathways, and address tissue contributing to obstruction.

FESS may be considered for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps when medical management has not adequately controlled symptoms.

What About Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty widens selected sinus drainage openings but does not remove nasal polyps.

It is not a primary treatment for nasal polyps and is not a substitute for polyp removal or appropriate management of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

In selected patients with coexisting sinus drainage problems, an ENT may evaluate whether balloon sinuplasty has a role in the overall treatment plan.

Can Nasal Polyps Return After Treatment?

Yes. Nasal polyps can recur even after medication or surgery.

Because the underlying inflammation may persist, ongoing medical management and ENT follow-up are often important.

Treatment outcomes vary, and no procedure or medication guarantees permanent resolution of symptoms or restoration of smell.

When Is It Time to See an ENT Specialist for Nasal Polyps?

Consider scheduling an ENT consultation if you experience:

• Recurring or persistent sinus symptoms
• Symptoms that do not improve with appropriate medical care
• Nasal symptoms that interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities
• Persistent nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through the nose
• A significantly reduced sense of smell
• Postnasal drip lasting several weeks
• Chronic coughing or frequent throat clearing

An ENT specialist can assess whether nasal polyps, chronic inflammation, or another condition may be responsible.

When Should You Seek Urgent Medical Attention?

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience sudden vision changes, a severe headache accompanied by neck stiffness or confusion, or significant difficulty breathing.

Arrange prompt medical evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent bloody nasal discharge
• Foul-smelling drainage from only one nostril
• Significant facial swelling or numbness
• Pain or swelling around the eyes
• Persistent one-sided nasal obstruction
• Unusual or rapidly worsening nasal symptoms

Nasal polyps commonly affect both sides of the nose. A growth or persistent blockage affecting only one side should be evaluated to rule out other possible causes.

These symptoms do not necessarily indicate nasal polyps and may require assessment for other conditions.

Conclusion: Nasal Polyps and Changes in Your Sense of Smell

Nasal polyps may reduce your sense of smell by obstructing airflow to the olfactory region and contributing to chronic inflammation that affects smell receptors.

However, not every change in smell is caused by nasal polyps. Identifying the underlying condition is important for determining which management options may be appropriate.

ENT & Sinus Center provides ear, nose, and throat care services for patients in Rancho Cucamonga and nearby California communities.

If you are experiencing persistent nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, or symptoms that suggest nasal obstruction,consider scheduling an appointment with our team to explore possible causes and discuss treatment options based on your individual needs.