Our Summary

The research paper investigates the relationship between nasal polyps, a form of chronic inflammation in the nose, with asthma and intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid (a common drug used for pain and fever). The scientists looked at the levels of certain chemicals involved in the body’s antioxidant defense system in patients with different combinations of these conditions.

They divided patients into three groups: those with only nasal polyps, those with nasal polyps and asthma, and those with nasal polyps, asthma, and an intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid. They then measured the levels of various substances involved in the body’s response to harmful oxidation processes, including specific enzymes, vitamins, and other molecules.

The results showed that patients with both nasal polyps and asthma had lower levels of certain substances involved in the body’s defense against oxidative damage, compared to those with only nasal polyps. However, those with nasal polyps, asthma, and an intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid had higher levels of nitrites and nitrates and total glutathione, substances that are also part of the body’s antioxidant defense system.

In simple terms, the study suggests that having asthma or an intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid along with nasal polyps can change the way the body handles harmful oxidation processes. This could potentially affect the body’s ability to protect itself from damage at the cellular level.

FAQs

  1. What is the relationship between nasal polyps, asthma, and intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid according to this research?
  2. How does having asthma or an intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid along with nasal polyps affect the body’s defense against oxidative damage?
  3. What substances were found in higher levels in patients with nasal polyps, asthma, and intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid compared to those with only nasal polyps or those with nasal polyps and asthma?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the nasal passages moist with saline sprays, and using prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor recovery progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended nasal polyp removal are those with severe symptoms that do not improve with medication, those who experience frequent sinus infections or sinusitis, those who have difficulty breathing through their nose, and those who have nasal polyps that are causing other complications such as obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, patients with nasal polyps who also have asthma or an intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid may be recommended for removal due to the potential impact on the body’s antioxidant defense system.

Timeline

Timeline of patient experience before and after nasal polyp removal:

Before nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient may experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, postnasal drip, reduced sense of smell, and facial pain or pressure.
  2. Patient may have difficulty breathing through the nose, leading to disrupted sleep and snoring.
  3. Patient may be prescribed medications such as nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, or decongestants to manage symptoms.
  4. Patient may undergo imaging tests such as a CT scan to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.
  5. Patient may undergo allergy testing to identify triggers for nasal inflammation.
  6. Patient may be advised to avoid triggers such as allergens or irritants that can worsen symptoms.

After nasal polyp removal:

  1. Patient undergoes a surgical procedure to remove nasal polyps, typically done under general anesthesia.
  2. Patient may experience some postoperative discomfort, nasal congestion, and mild bleeding in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient is prescribed pain medications and nasal saline irrigation to help with healing.
  4. Patient is advised to avoid activities such as blowing the nose or strenuous exercise that can increase the risk of bleeding.
  5. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for postoperative care and monitoring of symptoms.
  6. Patient may experience improved breathing, reduced nasal congestion, and improved sense of smell after recovery from surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Questions a patient should ask their doctor about nasal polyp removal include:

  1. What are the benefits of removing nasal polyps?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  4. What is the recovery process like after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  5. Will I need to take any medications or follow a specific post-operative care plan?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies for nasal polyps?
  7. How likely are nasal polyps to recur after surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to prevent nasal polyps from returning?
  9. How will nasal polyp removal surgery affect my asthma or intolerance to acetylsalicylic acid?
  10. Are there any specific tests or evaluations that need to be done before proceeding with nasal polyp removal surgery?

Reference

Authors: Canata DAM, Hackenhaar FS, Salomon TB, Schüller ÁK, da Silva GLF, Teixeira C, Benfato MS. Journal: Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2018 Aug;275(8):2027-2033. doi: 10.1007/s00405-018-5034-0. Epub 2018 Jun 11. PMID: 29948268