Living with CRSwNP
Despite CRSwNP being fairly common in the general population with several treatment options available, this is a long-lasting condition that can impact your daily life, including how you feel physically, mentally and emotionally.
But you are not alone. There are supportive communities and organisations that are there to help you manage it.
Finding support
There are several organisations working to raise awareness, offer support, and connect people living with CRSwNP. These organisations include:
- Fifth Sense
This is a charity supporting people affected by smell and taste disorders. Fifth Sense provides resources, support and a community for people living with these conditions. - EUFOREA
This is an international organisation committed to preventing and reducing the burden of allergies and airway diseases (like CRSwNP). EUFOREA organises awareness days, provides resources and helps advocate for the best patient care.
You might also find it helpful to join online or local support groups—these can be a good way to share experiences, get practical tips, and feel more connected with those closer to home.
You might find that your symptoms can impact many areas of your life, such as work, sleep, and mental health; so it is important to know there are self-care and other coping strategies to help you manage this, which can make a big difference.
Self-care measures
While you should always consult your doctor about your treatment and any concerns with your symptoms, there are a few lifestyle changes and self-care measures that you can try, which may help to reduce some of your symptoms:
- Removing allergens and avoiding irritants such as tobacco smoke and dust can make a huge difference.
- Alcohol consumption has also been linked to congestion, so many people with CRSwNP opt to reduce their intake.1
- Nasal rinsing with saline is recommended. Not only does it moisten the nasal passages, but it can also help remove any irritants, may reduce inflammation and help mucus flow more easily.2
- Using humidity to reduce inflammation in your nasal passages and help you breathe easier, for example by using a humidifier (particularly when trying to sleep) or applying warm face packs.3
- Calming breathing exercises can help open the sinuses. A small study showed an improvement in CRS patients who practiced Bharamari pranayama (or bumblebee breath) breathing exercises. To do it, inhale through your nose and as you exhale, make a loud humming sound like a bee.4
Looking after your mental health
CRSwNP doesn’t just affect your body. Receiving a diagnosis might bring up different emotions; you might feel relief, worry or frustration, shame or sadness. It is important to remember it's normal to experience a wide range of emotions, and there is no right or wrong way to cope with your diagnosis.
Making space for your mental wellbeing is as important as managing your physical symptoms. You may find it helpful to:
- Practice mindfulness techniques
- Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling
- Reach out to support groups
- Contact mental health professionals
References
- Cardet JC, et al. Alcohol-induced Respiratory Symptoms Are Common in Patients With Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice. 2014. Mar;2(2):208-213.e2.
- John Hopkins Medicine. Nasal Polyps. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/nasal-polyps. Last accessed April 2025.
- Nasal polyps: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. www.medicalnewstoday.com. 2017. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/177020. Last accessed April 2025.
- Bakshi S, Abishek K and Bhavanani A. The efficacy of yogic breathing exercise Bhramari pranayama in relieving symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis. International Journal of Yoga. 2019. May-Aug:12(2):120-123.