Like nasal polyps, nasal turbinates are a common source of nasal obstruction that can block proper airflow. At AllergyCorp Group, we pride ourselves on patient happiness and dedicate ourselves to the treatment and relief of sinus and nasal conditions. If you suffer from turbinate hypertrophy, schedule an appointment today. Or, learn more about nasal turbinates and how AllergyCorp Group sinus doctors treat them below.
Nasal turbinates, also known as nasal concha, are important structures inside the nose that trap dirt, dust, and other particles so they cannot enter your lungs. There are three turbinates – the inferior, middle and superior – in each nostril. These spongy and bony curled structures add moisture and heat the air you breathe in, helping your lungs to operate more effectively. When these structures are irritated by allergies or other conditions, they can become inflamed and enlarged, resulting in a blocked nasal airway.
Turbinate hypertrophy is a condition characterized by chronic swelling of the nasal turbinates. Because the turbinates are covered in mucosal membranes containing a large supply of blood vessels, they are very sensitive. Though it is normal for turbinates to swell and shrink, if they are chronically swollen, they can produce prolonged nasal congestion.
Turbinate hypertrophy treatments such as corticosteroid nasal sprays, allergy medications and avoidance of environmental irritants often reduce the swelling of turbinates and improve nasal breathing. When these methods aren’t effective at treating your symptoms, other options may be recommended to remedy the condition and its underlying causes. AllergyCorp Group can recommend a minimal invasive treatment called radiofrequency turbinate reduction that shrinks the size of turbinates. If a deviated septum is the cause of turbinate hypertrophy, a septoplasty may be recommended.
Turbinate hypertrophy can be caused by several factors, including:
∙ Allergies
∙ Chemical or physical irritants
∙ Temperature changes
∙ Other environmental irritants
∙ Hormonal changes
∙ Patients who have a deviated septum often develop turbinate hypertrophy.
Turbinate hypertrophy can cause:
∙ Persistent nasal congestion
∙ Recurring sinus infections (sinusitis)
∙ Difficulty breathing through the nose
∙ Snoring
∙ Nosebleeds