Nasal polyps are noncancerous or benign growth found in the lining tissues or the mucosa of the nose. Nasal congestion that does not go away even after taking medication for cold and allergies can result from nasal polyps. Here’s everything you need to know about the risk factors and causes of nasal polyps.

Causes of nasal polyps
These benign growths are often found in the inflamed nasal mucosa tissue. The mucosa is an extremely wet layer in the nose. It is responsible for protecting the internal parts of the nose and the sinuses. The mucosa also makes sure that the air we take in is humidified. When there is an infection or irritation, the mucosa swells up and becomes red. Under such circumstances, the mucosa can also produce a fluid that can start dripping from the nose. If the irritation stays for a while, the mucosa can turn into a polyp. These polyps can cause blockage in the nasal passage. The common factors that trigger their growth include the following.

1. Cystic fibrosis
This is a genetic condition wherein the body fluids become thick and sticky, especially the mucous in the sinus and nasal linings.

2. Asthma and other allergies
Any condition that causes blockage or irritation in the nose is a major cause for nasal polyps, as in most of these conditions, mucous fills up the airways.

3. Family history
The development of nasal polyps can be hereditary in some people. In such cases, the genes react in a certain way and cause a reaction of the mucosa. This reaction causes inflammation.

Risk factors of nasal polyps
There are several risk factors associated with nasal polyps, including the following.

1. Asthma
People who have a late onset of the condition, which means asthma onset was during adulthood and not childhood, are more prone to nasal polyps.

2. Sensitivity to certain medications
People who have an allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs are also at a higher risk of developing nasal polyps.

3. Age

Nasal polyps affect middle-aged and young people more commonly.

4. Genes
People who have a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of developing nasal polyps.

5. A weak immune system
Normally, people who get nasal polyps do not have a strong immune system.

6. Cystic fibrosis
A hereditary condition, cystic fibrosis, affects various body organs, such as the lungs, liver, intestines, and pancreas. The condition leads to mucus production, which is unusually thick and, hence, difficult to remove through a cough. Due to the accumulation of mucus in the lungs, the chances of getting an infection also increase.

7. Rhinitis

Chronic inflammation affecting the nose such as Hay fever, which is Allergic Rhinitis, can cause nasal polyps.

8. Allergic fungal sinusitis
Allergic reaction to airborne fungi can also increase the chances of getting nasal polyps.