What Is Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps?

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a long-lasting sinus condition that affects breathing and quality of life. Explore causes, symptoms, and U.S. treatment options

Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) is a long-term condition characterized by inflammation of the nasal and sinus lining, lasting 12 weeks or longer, along with the presence of noncancerous growths (polyps) in the nasal passages.

This chronic condition affects an estimated 5% of U.S. adults, often leading to nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, and breathing difficulties. It's particularly common in individuals with asthma, allergies, or aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD).

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Common Symptoms of CRSwNP

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  Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness

  
  


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  Postnasal drip and facial pressure

  
  


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  Loss or reduction in sense of smell or taste

  
  


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  Runny nose or chronic drainage

  
  


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  Snoring or difficulty breathing at night

  
  

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Causes & Risk Factors

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  Chronic inflammationfrom allergies or infections

  
  


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  Aspirin sensitivity (AERD patients)

  
  


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  Asthma or allergic fungal sinusitis

  
  


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  Genetic predisposition or immune disorders

  
  

The exact cause is often multifactorial and may involve immune dysfunction and environmental triggers.

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Treatment Options in the U.S. (2025)

1. Nasal Corticosteroids

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  First-line treatment to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps

  
  


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  Common brands: Flonase, Nasonex, Xhance

  
  

2. Saline Irrigation

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  Helps flush out mucus and allergens

  
  


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  Often used daily for symptom control

  
  

3. Oral Corticosteroids

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  Short courses prescribed for severe flare-ups

  
  


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  Used cautiously due to systemic side effects

  
  

4. Biologic Therapies

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  Targeted treatment for moderate to severe cases

  
  


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  FDA-approved biologics:

  
  
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    Dupixent (dupilumab)

    
    
  
  
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    Nucala (mepolizumab)

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Help reduce nasal polyp size and improve breathing and smell

  
  

5. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

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  Considered when medications fail

  
  


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  Minimally invasive, improves sinus drainage and polyp removal

  
  

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Living with CRSwNP

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  Regular follow-ups with an ENT specialist or allergist are essential

  
  


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  Managing underlying asthma or allergies greatly improves long-term control

  
  


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  Early intervention can prevent complications like sinus infections or impaired quality of life