Nasal polyps are commonly found as painless, soft growths that develop in the inner linings of the nasal passage. The specific causes of nasal polyps are hard to pinpoint because not everyone will suffer from the same triggers. These polyps resemble hanging grapes or teardrops and are the result of chronic inflammation. They can be associated with recurring infections, allergies, asthma, immune disorders, and drug sensitivity.

While the small-sized nasal polyps will not show any symptoms, the larger ones can even block the nasal passage and trigger breathing problems, frequent infections, and a possible loss of the sense of smell. You may be prescribed medicines that can shrink these polyps but, at times, people may have to undergo surgeries to eliminate these completely. Incidentally, even after successful surgery, the polyps can recur.

1. Allergens
   Nasal polyps appear in the inflamed tissues of your nasal mucosa. The latter is a wet layer that protects the inside of our nose and sinuses and humidifies the air that we breathe in. When there is an irritation because of an allergy or infection, this nasal mucosa tends to become red and swollen. It starts to release fluid that oozes out. When the irritation continues for a long time, a polyp may form. These polyps are really small cysts or round growths that are capable of blocking the nasal passages.
2. Inflammation
   Most researchers are of the opinion that polyps are no indication of any disease; they are simply swellings of the nose and sinuses. Some experts feel that the inflammation triggers a fluid buildup inside the space between the cells that form the mucous inside the nose and its sinuses. Gravity pulls these mucous cells downwards resulting in polyp formation.
3. Immune Response
   Scientists also believe that common causes of nasal polyps are bacterial and viral infections, allergies, or immune responses to fungi. Evidence suggests that individuals who experience nasal polyps have distinct immune system reactions and diverse chemical markers inside their mucous membranes than individuals who never have polyps. The truth is nasal polyps can happen at any age, but you will mostly find these occurring in youngsters and middle-aged people. Moreover, the polyps can develop anywhere in the nasal passage or sinuses, but they are mostly found in regions that are close to your nose, eyes, and cheekbones.
4. Chronic Swelling in the Nasal Passage
   Any condition that is responsible for long-term swelling or inflammation in your nasal passage or sinuses like allergies and infections can heighten the chances of getting nasal polyps.
5. Other Causes
   • Asthma causes the airway to swell and become constricted
   • Sensitivity to aspirin may trigger nasal polyps
   • Allergic fungal sinusitis is an allergy to fungi that are carried in the air
   • A family history where variations in genes related to the immune system can make you prone to getting nasal polyps