Sinus or nasal polyps are small growths of noncancerous tissue that develop along the inside of the nasal and sinus cavities. These growths occur most frequently in people who have asthma or allergies, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. People with sinus polyps can experience relief from uncomfortable breathing or nasal congestion symptoms by undergoing sinus polyp surgery. A doctor should discuss the potential side effects of sinus polyp surgery with all patients before administering treatment.
Bleeding
Bloody nasal discharge or mild nasal bleeding are normal side effects of sinus polyp surgery and generally subside during the first week following surgery. Excessive bleeding side effects after sinus surgery are rare, but may require that affected patients undergo additional surgery or a blood transfusion to resolve bleeding issues, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston reports. Patients who develop profuse nasal bleeding after sinus polyp surgery should seek prompt medical care to avoid excessive blood loss.
Vision Changes
Eye damage during sinus polyp surgery can cause vision side effects in patients. Vision alterations can include blurred or cloudy vision or complete vision loss. These side effects can affect one or both eyes depending upon the extent of damage. Vision changes can persist for several weeks, but typically resolve once a patient has healed from surgery. Additionally, tear duct damage can result in excessive eye tearing in patients after surgery, Johns Hopkins Medicine warns. In rare instance, vision loss or alterations can be permanent in certain patients.
CSF Leakage or Meningitis
Damage to the bone that lies at the top of the sinuses during sinus polyps surgery can cause cerebral spinal fluid, or CSF, leakage side effects in patients. Minor CSF leakage generally resolves without additional medical intervention. If CSF leakage persists, patients are in danger of developing an inflammatory brain infection called meningitis, MedlinePlus explains. This life-threatening infection can cause symptoms of a stiff neck, a pulsating headache or high fever. Patients who develop any of these side effects after sinus polyp surgery should consult with a doctor immediately.
Infection
A nasal or sinus infection can develop as a side effect of sinus polyp surgery, Johns Hopkins Medicine reports. Affected patients can experience nasal discomfort or congestion that typically resolves following administration of antibiotic treatment.
Poor Sense of Smell
Patients can develop a decrease in their normal sense of smell as a side effect of this procedure, the University of Texas Medical School at Houston warns. Certain patients may develop complete loss of smell, a side effect that may be permanent.
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