Nasal polypsare benign growths that occur in the nasal and sinus passageways.
It is a well-known fact that these types of medications are capable of suppressing immunity.
It is also interesting to note that steroids are sometimes used to treat COVID-19 in certain clinical situations.
Science Photo Library / Getty Images
Currently, these speculations are just that.
Here’s what we do know.
Samples of nasal polyp tissue were found to have a lower amount of ACE2 than in control tissue.
This finding could be used to hypothesize that people with nasal polyps might actually belesslikely to get COVID-19.
More research is needed.
Complications of Nasal Polyps and COVID-19
Nasal polyps and COVID-19 share a few overlapping symptoms.
It is unknown how nasal polyps and COVID-19 may affect your sense of smell or other symptoms.
These include corticosteroids and biologic medications such as dupilumab.
However, scienceisn’t exactly bearing this theory out.
There have also been a few case reports of COVID-19-related pneumonia being successfully treated using this medication.
More research is needed.
You are not alone if you are still confused after reading the outcomes of these studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should people with nasal polyps wear a face mask?
If possible, take frequent breaks from your mask (away from other people, of course).
Should I stop taking my medications for nasal polyps or switch?
However, if you are worried about this, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
Can I get a nasal swab for COVID-19 testing?
Information on this is limited right now.
The information in this article is current as of the date listed.
As new research becomes available, well update this article.
For the latest on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
2020;146(1):67-69. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2020.04.030
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Nasal polyps.
2020;146(1):218-220.e2.
2020 Dec 9;95(1):e01648-20.
doi:10.1128/JVI.01648-2010
American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.Allergic reactions related to COVID-19 vaccinations in allergic patients.
The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.COVID-19 swabbing.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How to protect yourself and others.
