How Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) Is Diagnosed

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Welcome to a new episode of the Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Innovations Podcast. This episode is part of our series on chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). CRSwNP happens when the nose and sinuses stay swollen for a long time. This swelling can cause soft growths called nasal polyps that block airflow and make it hard to breathe or smell.

Our co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney talk about how doctors diagnose CRSwNP. They are joined by Tonia Farmer, MD, a board-certified ENT specialist. They explain how doctors check for CRSwNP. They cover the symptoms that doctors look for, what happens during an exam, and how CT scans, endoscopy and allergy tests help with the diagnosis.

You can listen to the podcast on ItchPodcast.com or download it for listening anytime, anywhere, at:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Thank you to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring this podcast episode.

Key takeaways from our CRSwNP diagnosis podcast

CRSwNP is a condition that affects the nose and sinuses. It causes swelling, mucus buildup, and soft growths called nasal polyps. A clear diagnosis can help you get the right treatment and feel more in control.

Here is what we cover in this podcast about diagnosing CRSwNP:

  • Getting the right diagnosis early is important because nasal polyps can grow and become harder to treat over time.
  • Loss of smell is a common sign and can be one of the first symptoms people notice.
  • Doctors can see nasal polyps during a nasal endoscopy (a small scope that looks inside the nose).
  • CT scans help show how swollen the sinuses are and if they are blocked.
  • Allergy tests and signs of Type 2 inflammation help guide treatment, especially for people with asthma or allergies.

If congestion lasts more than 12 weeks or you notice changes in your sense of smell, it is important to see an allergist or ENT. A full exam can help you learn what is causing your symptoms and what treatments may help.

Timestamps for podcast about diagnosing nasal polyps

01:11 – Meet Dr. Tonia Farmer

02:12 – Quick overview of CRSwNP

03:49 – Signs and symptoms to watch for

05:00 – Loss of smell: COVID or nasal polyps?

06:31 – How doctors diagnose CRSwNP

12:05 – ENT vs allergist: who does what

14:20 – Asthma and AERD connections

17:40 – When CT scans are needed

22:44 – Other tests that help confirm CRSwNP

24:48 – When it’s time to see a specialist

29:22 – Why early diagnosis matters

More resources about CRSwNP