Nasal Polyp Diagnosis

It is important to see a doctor with special training in diagnosing and treating nasal polyps, called otorhinolaryngologists or ear, nose, and throat doctors. Your primary care doctor can refer you to a specialist.

The doctor will look at the inside of your nose to check for blockage. This physical exam may include:

• Putting cotton balls soaked in medicine inside your nose to reduce swelling or spraying the inside of your nose with an anesthetic medicine
• Using a small instrument to look inside the nose
• Gently pressing inside of the nose to check for swelling

The doctor will ask questions about:

• Your medicines
• Your personal and family medical history

Other tests include:

• CT scan -a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of polyps inside the nose and sinuses
• Sweat test-a test that measures the amount of sodium and chloride in the perspiration to check for Cystic Fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is rare, but it is more likely in children with nasal polyps.
• Allergy skin tests-to see whether you have allergies
• Biopsy of the polyp-to confirm the diagnosis