Nasal polyps are growths that occur in the paranasal sinuses and the lining of your nose. These growths are not cancerous, but they can affect your ability to smell and lead to breathing issues if they are large. If you want to learn about the risk factors of nasal polyps, listed below are the risk factors of nasal polyps.
Sensitivity to NSAIDs
If you are allergic to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, there is a higher chance of developing nasal polyps. This is why people with allergic to aspirin or general NSAIDs need to be more careful.
Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a condition that results in the production of unusually thick mucus. When the mucus forms in your airways, it becomes difficult to breathe. The disease can affect your pancreas, lungs, intestines, and liver. When the mucus clogs your lungs, it leads to the possibility of infection. Due to this, cystic fibrosis can cause nasal polyps.
Age
A person’s age is a risk factor for nasal polyps. The condition is more common in middle-aged and young patients compared to older people.
Immune system weakness
Your immune system is responsible for fighting any possibility of diseases developing in the body. Hence, if the immune system is weak, you will be more prone to get sick. This is why people with weaker immunity often develop nasal polyps.
Asthma
Asthma is an illness that leads to the swelling of your airways, making it narrow. The condition also produces unwanted mucus, making the airways congested. If you develop asthma, it makes it very difficult to breathe and often causes wheezing noises during exhalation. Asthma can also result in breathing shortness. If you develop asthma as an adult, it can often be one of the risk factors of nasal polyps.
Genes
Genetics plays a vital role in the development of nasal polyps. If your family has a history of this condition, there is a higher chance that you may develop nasal polyps too.
Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is a common risk factor of nasal polyps. It is an allergic reaction that more commonly occurs during seasonal changes. This condition can lead to nasal polyps. In fact, all kinds of chronic nasal inflammation can cause nasal polyps.
Allergic fungal sinusitis
It is a very common form of fungal infection that affects your sinuses. It results in sinus blockage and can lead to conditions, like asthma, allergies, and nasal polyps. If the condition is not treated timely, allergic fungal sinusitis can cause vision loss.
