Could a Nasal Tumor Be Causing Your Symptoms?
If you’re experiencing persistent nasal congestion, pressure, or unexplained nosebleeds, it’s natural to be concerned. In most cases, these symptoms are caused by common conditions such as allergies or sinus infections. However, in rare cases, ongoing or one-sided symptoms may be linked to a nasal tumor.
Understanding the warning signs can help you know when to seek evaluation from an experienced Seattle-area ENT specialist.
What Is a Nasal Tumor?
In medical language, a tumor simply means an abnormal growth of cells. This does not automatically mean cancer.
- Benign Nasal Tumors: These are non-cancerous growths, like nasal polyps (often linked to inflammation) or inverted papillomas. They do not spread but can grow and cause blockages, pressure, or bleeding.
- Malignant Nasal Tumors: These are cancerous growths, such as squamous cell carcinoma. They are rare but require prompt, specialized treatment.
Because early symptoms often resemble common sinus problems, nasal tumors can go undetected without proper evaluation by an otolaryngologist (ENT).
The Most Important Warning Sign: One-Sided and Persistent Symptoms
The sinuses and nasal passages are largely symmetrical. Common issues like colds or seasonal allergies typically affect both sides of your face and nose.
The most significant red flag is when symptoms are stubborn, don't respond to typical treatments, and occur primarily or exclusively on one side. This persistent one-sided pattern can signal a localized problem, such as a growth blocking a single sinus or nasal passage.
Key Warning Signs That Warrant an ENT Evaluation
If symptoms persist longer than a few weeks or continue to worsen, it’s important to consult an otolaryngologist (ENT) with experience in nasal and sinus disorders.
- Persistent One-Sided Nasal Congestion: A constant feeling that one nostril is blocked, which doesn't clear with allergy medication or decongestants and lasts for weeks or months
- Frequent One-Sided Nosebleeds: Recurrent bleeding that originates from just one nostril, beyond the occasional minor bleed from dry air
- One-Sided Facial Pain, Pressure, or Numbness: A dull ache, fullness, or even numbness in the cheek, upper teeth, forehead, or around one eye
- Loss or Reduction of Sense of Smell: A partial or total loss of smell (anosmia) that doesn't return after a cold or allergy flare-up has resolved
- Eye-Related Symptoms: New or worsening symptoms on one side, such as bulging of the eye, persistent double vision, watering, or vision changes
- A Visible Mass or Facial Swelling: Noticing a visible fleshy mass in the nostril, or a significant outward swelling on one side of the nose or face
- Persistent Postnasal Drip or Drainage: Constant drainage down the back of the throat, particularly if it's bloody or only occurs on one side.
Expert ENT Care in the Puget Sound Area
Patients in Seattle, Tacoma, Puyallup, and surrounding communities can receive specialized care from Dr. Greg Davis, a board-certified otolaryngologist and fellowship-trained rhinology specialist.
Dr. Davis has advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex nasal and sinus conditions, including nasal tumors. His practice uses modern diagnostic technology to provide accurate, compassionate, and efficient care.
If you are experiencing persistent one-sided symptoms, scheduling a consultation is the critical first step toward an accurate diagnosis and peace of mind.
