People often get confused between nasal polyps and sinusitis. This is because when it comes to their symptoms, both these conditions tend to seem very similar. Moreover, they also tend to cause similar problems in the long run. Nonetheless, they differ from each other in various ways. In this article, we will be discussing each of these conditions and how they vary from one another.

1. What are nasal polyps?
Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths that happen in the lining of the nostrils or sinuses. They occur due to certain conditions such as infections, asthma, and immunity disorders. Nasal polyps can block the nasal passages, resulting in difficulty breathing and smelling. These growths can be removed using medication; however, they may still return after treatment. Larger, more stubborn growths are removed using surgery. Nasal polyps can occur in people of all ages. However, they are mostly seen in middle-aged or older people. The symptoms may not be noticeable when the polyps are small in size. Larger growths may cause symptoms such as loss of taste and smell, headache, nose bleeds, and stuffiness. The symptoms may be similar to sinusitis and common cold and, thus, confusing to diagnose.

2. What is sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis or chronic rhinosinusitis is when the sinuses are inflamed for more than 12 weeks despite regular medication and treatment. One may have several episodes of sinusitis before it turns chronic. This interferes with the normal functioning of the nasal passages, leading to shortness of breath or a stuffy nose. This condition can occur for various reasons, including nasal polyps, infections in the respiratory tract, a crooked nasal septum, and immune system conditions like HIV. The common symptoms of sinusitis are inflammation in the nasal passages, difficulty breathing, and pain around the eyes, cheeks, or nose. If one has a fever, it is most likely that they have acute sinusitis, as this is not one of the symptoms of chronic sinusitis. However, fever along with chronic sinusitis can also be the result of a more severe infection.

3. What is the difference between nasal polyps and sinusitis?
Nasal polyps are growths that occur in the nasal passages, whereas sinusitis is simply the inflammation of the nasal passages. Sinusitis can occur due to the presence of nasal polyps, as the growth in the nasal passages blocks the flow of mucus, which can lead to an infection. It is also possible to have both conditions simultaneously; however, it is also possible to have both conditions separately. The common symptoms caused by both these conditions are a stuffy nose, headache, and fatigue. When sinusitis is not related to or caused by nasal polyps, one might notice symptoms like teeth ache, yellow or green colored nasal discharge, and fever.