Nasal Polyps

1 medicine

Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths inside the nasal passages caused by chronic inflammation, treated mainly with topical corticosteroids such as budesonide.

Rhinocort

Budesonide

100mcg

Rhinocort is a asthma respiratory medication containing Budesonide, available as 100mcg inhalers.

from $41.81 / inhaler View

Key facts

  • Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses, caused by chronic inflammation.
  • They're more common in people with long-standing allergic rhinitis, asthma, or aspirin sensitivity, and can block airflow, dull the sense of smell, and cause persistent sinus congestion.
  • Topical corticosteroids such as budesonide reduce the inflammation that sustains polyps, usually needing weeks of regular use before they visibly shrink.
  • Severe or recurring polyps that don't respond to topical treatment may need a short oral corticosteroid course or, as a last resort, sinus surgery.

What nasal polyps are

Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They stem from chronic inflammation and, when large enough, can block airflow, muffle the sense of smell, and contribute to persistent sinus congestion. They're more common in adults with long-standing allergic rhinitis, asthma, or sensitivity to aspirin.

How corticosteroids treat nasal polyps

The main treatment goal is shrinking the polyps to restore comfortable breathing. Topical corticosteroids applied directly inside the nose reduce the inflammation that sustains the growths. Budesonide is one of the most widely used options, delivering anti-inflammatory action to the nasal lining with minimal absorption into the rest of the body. It sits within the broader respiratory health category of medicines used for airway inflammation.

Regular use over weeks, rather than days, is typically needed before polyps noticeably shrink.

When to see a doctor

People with severe or recurring polyps that don't respond to topical treatment may eventually be considered for a short oral corticosteroid course or, as a last resort, endoscopic sinus surgery. See a doctor promptly if you develop severe facial pain, a high fever alongside sinus symptoms, or a sudden loss of vision: these may signal a complication rather than uncomplicated polyps.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.