Nasal Polyps vs. Sinus Infection: How to Tell the Difference
If you’re struggling with congestion, facial pressure, or constant sinus drainage, you may wonder if you have a sinus infection, or if your symptoms could point to something else, such as nasal polyps. These two conditions often feel similar, but they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding the difference between the two is the first step toward lasting relief.
“Nasal polyps and sinus infections both affect the sinuses, but they’re completely different conditions,” explains Dr. Arjuna Kuperan, a board-certified ENT sinus specialist in Houston. “Treating one like the other can delay relief, so getting an accurate diagnosis is key.”
Below, Dr. Kuperan breaks down how to tell them apart and when to see an expert.
What Are Nasal Polyps?
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that form in the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. They’re often linked to chronic inflammation and conditions such as asthma, allergies, or recurring infections.
Common symptoms of nasal polyps include:
- Persistent nasal congestion
- Reduced or lost sense of smell
- Clear nasal drip
- Mild facial pressure or fullness
- Snoring or mouth breathing
Nasal polyps are typically painless and develop gradually over time. They can range in size and often occur on both sides of the nose. In many cases, patients with polyps don’t even realize they have them until symptoms worsen or polyps begin to block normal airflow and drainage.
What Is a Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)?
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining your sinuses, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. When the sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and trigger an infection.
Symptoms of a sinus infection may include:
- Intense facial pain or pressure
- Thick, yellow, or green nasal discharge
- Nasal congestion
- Headache
- Fever (in some cases)
- Fatigue or general malaise
- Pain that worsens when bending over
Unlike nasal polyps, sinus infections usually come on suddenly and cause noticeable discomfort. In some cases, sinus infections may resolve on their own, but chronic or recurrent cases may require medical evaluation.
Key Differences Between Nasal Polyps and Sinus Infections
*Comparison Table that shows differences between Nasal Polyps & Sinus Infection*
| Feature | Nasal Polyps | Sinus Infection |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Chronic inflammation (e.g., allergies, asthma) | Viral or bacterial infection |
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden |
| Pain | Usually painless | Often painful, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead |
| Discharge | Minimal or clear postnasal drip | Thick, discolored mucus |
| Sense of Smell | Frequently reduced or lost | May be affected temporarily |
| Treatment | Steroid sprays, nasal rinses, sometimes surgery | Antibiotics (for bacterial cases), decongestants, sinus rinses |
Can You Have Both at the Same Time?
Yes. In fact, nasal polyps and sinus infections often go hand-in-hand. Polyps can obstruct the nasal passages, preventing proper drainage and creating the perfect environment for sinus infections to develop and linger. If you’re dealing with chronic sinus infections or symptoms that never fully go away, nasal polyps may be a hidden part of the problem.
When to See an ENT Specialist
It’s time to consult a sinus specialist like Dr. Arjuna Kuperan if you:
- Have chronic or recurring sinus infections
- Experience constant nasal congestion
- Have lost your sense of smell
- Don’t respond to over-the-counter sinusitis treatments
- Suspect nasal polyps but aren’t sure
As a fellowship-trained ENT specialist, Dr. Kuperan specializes in advanced sinus care, including diagnosing and treating nasal polyps and sinusitis. Using minimally invasive techniques like nasal endoscopy and CT imaging, he can pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend effective, personalized solutions.
“You don’t have to live with chronic congestion or recurring infections,” says Dr. Kuperan. “With the right tools and targeted treatment, we can help patients breathe clearly again.”
Struggling with sinus symptoms that won’t go away? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kuperan today to explore modern, effective sinusitis treatments and get to the root of the problem.
