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Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the nose and sinuses that results in the formation of soft bumps in the sinuses. While these lumps (nasal polyps) usually do not cause pain, they can affect your quality of life and cause unpleasant symptoms, especially in women, who are often more severely affected by this condition. Although men are more likely to suffer from chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, women are more likely to have more severe symptoms, have more cases of concurrent asthma, and have more impaired quality of life.
We spoke with Stella Lee, physician, ENT surgeon, and director of the Brigham Sinus Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, to find out what you need to know about symptoms, treatments, and living with nasal polyps.
What are the common symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps?
Chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps results in persistent inflammation of the nose and sinuses, resulting in symptoms that last three months or longer. Some common symptoms are:
- Persistent nasal congestion or congestion
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Loss or reduction of the sense of smell and taste
- Retronasal swelling or cronic rhinitis
- Congestion or facial pressure (usually without pain)
- Sleep disorders, snoring or tiredness
Why is rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps often more severe in women?
There are many possible reasons why women have more severe rhinosinusitis symptoms with nasal polyps, and these reasons are still being studied. Contributing factors could include:
- Hormonal influences that can influence immune reactions and inflammation of the nasal mucosa
- Differences in immune system regulation, with women suffering more from inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
- There are delays in diagnosis because symptoms in women may be mistaken as normal, minimized, or attributed to allergies or stress
- A higher rate of co-occurring conditions such as asthma, migraines, and aspirin hypersensitivity, which can worsen nasal symptoms
It is important to note that women often report greater impairment in their quality of life, including fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and impaired sense of smell, even when the severity of the disorder appears similar.
What treatment options are available for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps?
Treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is individual and often involves a combination of methods, including:
- Topical corticosteroid nasal rinses or sprays to reduce inflammation and improve mucus clearance
- Short courses of oral corticosteroids for severe attacks (use cautiously in severe exacerbations)
- Functional endoscopic sinus surgery to remove polyps, restore nasal fistulas and improve drug delivery when medical therapy is insufficient
- Biological therapies We target the inflammatory pathways of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
- The control of associated disorders Stories like asthma or allergies
CRSwNP is a chronic condition, so treatments focus on long-term management rather than a one-time cure.
What changes can women make to their lifestyle to improve their breathing if they have chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps?
Although lifestyle changes do not replace medical treatment, they can significantly improve symptom control:
- Daily physiological nasal serums to remove mucus and allergens
- Reduce exposure to irritants such as smoke, strong fragrances and air pollution
- Control environmental allergies when they occur
- Prioritize sleep, stress reduction, and regular exercise, as these can all impact immune system health
- If necessary, ensure good control of asthma or reflux
Are there specific questions women should ask their doctor about treating nasal polyps?
Yes. Useful questions like:
- What short- and long-term treatment options do I have? Which therapy options are ideal for me?
- How can we track whether the treatment for my nasal polyps is working?
- How do my other medical conditions (asthma, allergies, migraines) affect my sinus disease?
- What can I do at home or at work to reduce outbreaks and ensure good control?
What can women do to advocate for their right to better treatment for nasal polyps?
Defending your rights is essential if you suffer from a chronic illness:
- Monitor your symptoms (breathing, smell, sleep, fatigue) and how they affect your daily life
- Express how you feel if symptoms persist despite treatment; It is not “normal” to have constant traffic jams
- Ask for a referral to a sinus specialist if relief is limited
- Mention concerns about your quality of life, not just nasal symptoms
- Look for medical providers who are willing to discuss all available options, including new therapies
Women should feel empowered to expect relief, not just comfort, and to work with their healthcare team to manage this disorder long-term.
This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron.
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