Nasal polyps might start out as benign non-tumorous growths within the nose. Although they are not painful, they can sometimes lead to other complications. Some of these complications can interrupt the airflow while others can lead to chronic sleep apnea and other issues. Learning about the complications associated with nasal polyps helps in identifying the warning signs at an early stage. Here are a few complications that are associated with nasal polyps:

1. Infection of the polyps
When the common symptoms of polyps are ignored, they can lead to an increase in the size of the polyp. Combined with frequent cold-related infections, there could also be an infection of the polyp growth. An infected polyp can also lead to the formation of pus, making it painful.

2. Bleeding
Another possible sign that nasal polyps have become an issue is bleeding. It is also accompanied by slight pain in the nose, in areas where the polyps have grown. This could be mistaken for nosebleeds.

3. Sinusitis
One of the most common complications associated with nasal polyps is the worsening of sinusitis. Sinus infections can be of various kinds; and the treatment and its effectiveness depend on the actual cause. If the sinus infection is caused due to a nasal polyp infection, then it can result in a severe headache or even pain around the eyes and the sinus region.

4. Other rare complications
While nasal polyps might not necessarily cause issues in many, in some rare cases, there could be more severe complications—such as meningitis—if the polyps are left untreated. A cumulative comparison of the risk factors and your health and medical history would help you better understand the complications you are likely to experience from nasal polyps. Like sinus infections, there could also be possible infections of the sinus bones, which is known as osteitis. If this progresses or if the sinus infection worsens, then there could also be an infection of the cells around the eyes. Besides these, some people also experience sleep disorders like sleep apnea as a result of an enlarged nasal polyp. Most of these complications are quite rare and they can be managed with medical intervention. The removal of nasal polyps is known to provide long-term relief in most cases.

Early identification of and appropriate treatment for the condition can prevent the onset of the complications associated with nasal polyps. If the complications are ignored, then the surgical removal of the polyps might be the only way to solve the problem.