Nasal Polyps are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the nasal passages or sinuses. They are soft teardrop-like growths that are painless, but if they grow large enough, nasal polyps can cause breathing issues. Nasal polyp growths can easily go unnoticed, but as they grow larger, the following symptoms may become evident:

1. Runny nose
One of the early warning signs of nasal polyps is a chronically runny nose. Although a runny nose is a common indicator of many respiratory conditions it is a sign of inflammation in the nasal passages. It is a long term inflammation that actually causes the polyps to form which is why asthma sufferers and those with allergies can be prone to this condition. A persistent runny nose lasting longer than 3 weeks may indicate an irritation significant enough to cause nasal polyps.

2. Persistent congestion
The nasal constriction associated with an extended stuffed up nose can be both a cause and effect of Nasal Polyps. If there are no polyps present but some other inflammatory element creates a blocked up nose over time this can lead to the growth of polyps. A congested nose can be an indication of a large polyp blocking up nasal passages. A chronic blocked nose that lasts over 12 weeks is considered sinusitis. Untreated sinusitis can lead to quicker growth and nasal polyps.

3. Post nasal drip
Post nasal drip is a condition whereby excess mucus runs down the back of the throat directly from the nasal passages. This is a normal process to a small degree but noticeable drainage can be a sign of a problem. If someone is suffering postnasal drip but does not have a runny nose as well this may indicate a blockage within the nasal passages. This can be caused by an enlarged polyp.

4. Loss of taste and smell
Taste and smell are two closely connected senses which can be inhibited by a number of things. Sinus infections for instance can inhibit the smell receptors in the nose which in turn limits the sense of taste. Polyps can also cause a loss of smell and taste by blocking these sensory cells in the nasal passages and at the back of the throat.

5. Facial pain or headache
Among the symptoms of chronic sinusitis can be headaches and facial pain. This is caused by the inflammation of the sinuses and the headaches present at the front of the head rather than the back. The facial pain is again an indicator that something such as nasal passages is irritating the nose and sinuses.

6. Pressure in forehead and teeth
As sinuses swell as the result of inflammation from sinus polyps pressure builds up which is noticeable in the forehead and facial region. As the sinuses are located in the skull above the upper teeth some nasal polyp sufferers may experience tooth pain in conjunction with other polyp related symptoms.