8 home remedies for managing nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are painless, soft, and benign growths in the nasal passages and sinuses. They are usually formed from the mucus membranes. Small polyps may not lead to any symptoms, but in severe cases, they may cause a stuffy nose, runny nose, headache, nose bleeds, and loss of smell or taste. There are various treatments available to relieve the symptoms of nasal polyps; in minor cases, one can check out home remedies such as:
8 home remedies for managing nasal polyps
If your case of nasal polyps is not very severe and home remedies are likely to soothe your symptoms, then check out the ones listed below:
Humidifier or steam inhalation
The first option to try is inhaling the steam of hot water to moisten and open the nasal passages and airways. You may also add a few drops of essential oils to the water for an additional therapeutic effect. Other than steam inhalation, you can also use a humidifier in your home; this will help moisten the airways and sinuses.
Nasal irrigation or neti pot
Nasal irrigation, defined as flushing the sinuses with salty and warm water, helps clear nasal congestion. It provides relief from allergies, colds, and sinus infections. A neti pot is an efficient and effective way to do that. “Neti,” in Sanskrit, means nasal cleansing, and this remedy first originated in Ayurvedic treatment.
Staying hydrated
Along with steam inhalation and nasal irrigation, you should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Apart from providing many health benefits, it will help moisten the nasal passages and thin the mucus.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil renowned for its antimicrobial properties. It has many effective traits in treating and reducing itching and addressing infection and inflammation. This helps in managing both the causes and symptoms of nasal polyps. As mentioned earlier, you can use essential oils in steam inhalation or in an aromatherapy diffuser. It is to be noted that tea tree oil should not be used internally.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory compounds available. Due to this, it is helpful in treating nasal polyps and sinus infections. Turmeric also consists of curcumin, a healing compound with many health benefits. You can use turmeric as a cooking spice or sprinkle it in a smoothie.
Cayenne pepper
Not only is it good as a remedy for a few health issues, but it also adds flavor and spice to your food. Cayenne pepper contains vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6, beta carotene, potassium, manganese, and flavonoids. Antioxidants and vitamin C are valuable for boosting the immune system. Vitamin A helps in reducing inflammation and is beneficial for preventing inflamed nasal passages and allergies. Cayenne pepper also consists of capsaicin, a compound used to clear sinuses. Cayenne pepper in the dried or powdered form may be added to eggs, pasta, nuts, meat, and vegetables to spice them up and get its health benefits.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is full of many health-supporting properties, such as its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It also helps reduce mucus and hence, is a good remedy for relieving seasonal allergies. Its anti-bacterial properties and traits kill the infection-causing bacteria. It boosts probiotic action and is loaded with vitamins, making it a beneficial cold remedy.
Probiotics
Probiotics may help balance the microbiomes in the body and may help reduce the symptoms of nasal polyps. Microbiomes consist of the microorganisms that live inside the body, which are good bacteria for the overall health of the individual. Probiotic-loaded foods are yogurt and kefir.
Spray for nasal polyps
We have elaborated on some home remedies for treating and reducing the symptoms of nasal polyps. But it is a good option to consult the health care provider if there are symptoms of nasal polyps that are interfering with normal breathing. The health care provider may ask about the health history, particularly asthma, allergies, and infections. Then they may ask about the symptoms and how long these have been prevailing. The doctor will look inside the nose with a nasal endoscope and may recommend a CT scan to get a complete picture of the sinuses.
There are various treatment options available, one of which is a spray for nasal polyps relief option. Steroid nasal sprays may be used regularly and long-term to prevent further polyps from emerging and developing. Steroid sprays are particularly used to shrink polyps and relieve the symptoms. But they are not adequate for eradicating the polyps. Also, some people are prone to recurring nasal polyps. One can check out spray options for relief from nasal polyps , which is available without a prescription at most pharmacies.
Regular usage of nasal sprays is safe, but in some cases, one may face irritation, nose bleeds, and sore throat due to specific prescriptions. It is also significant to follow the instructions carefully as sometimes the side effects are caused by not adhering to the instructions. It is recommended to consult the health care provider for the proper diagnosis and treatment before opting for any self-treatment option. Also, if any side-effect prevails, you should see a doctor.
Let’s summarize
When they grow in the nose or sinuses, nasal polyps may lead to discomfort, bothersome symptoms, allergies, and infections. Polyps may even develop after treatments. So, many people use prescription treatment options for a longer time and follow natural remedies alongside for relief from nasal polyps. Consulting the health care expert and following the right treatment after a proper diagnosis is always suggested before following any home remedy or self-treatment.