What Is Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy?
Nasal turbinate hypertrophy occurs when the turbinates, small structures within the nasal passages that help filter and humidify the air we breathe, become enlarged or swollen. This condition primarily affects the inferior turbinates, which are located at the bottom of the nasal cavity. Normally, these turbinates regulate airflow and maintain healthy nasal function by controlling humidity and filtering out particles. However, when the soft tissue covering these turbinates becomes irritated due to allergies, infections, environmental factors, or other irritants, it can swell, leading to nasal blockage.
In cases of chronic irritation or inflammation, the turbinates can become permanently enlarged, significantly obstructing airflow. This condition can cause symptoms like persistent nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, and a reduced sense of smell. Turbinate hypertrophy can occur on one or both sides of the nose, and the severity of symptoms varies depending on the degree of enlargement.
If untreated, nasal turbinate hypertrophy can impact quality of life, as the ongoing nasal blockage may lead to disrupted sleep, sinus infections, and chronic mouth breathing.
What Are Inferior Turbinates?
Inferior nasal turbinates are located inside your nose on either side of your nasal septum. They are bone covered with erectile soft tissue that helps create turbulence inside the nose to warm, purify and humidify the air that we breathe. The soft tissue covering expands and contracts which can give you the sensation of congestion and clear breathing, respectively.
What Else Can Block My Breathing?
There are many conditions that can obstruct airflow in the nose. A deviated septum or enlarged inferior turbinates are two of the more common causes. You may also have nasal valve collapse which is an extreme narrowing of the already narrow areas inside the nose. Nasal polyps can block airflow as well.
Causes Of Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy
Viral and bacterial infections including sinusitis can cause severe nasal congestion. Allergies cause the nose to swell also blocking breathing. Rare causes include tumors or autoimmune disorders. Your otolaryngologist can look inside your nose and let you know what is causing your congestion.
Common Signs And Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of nasal turbinate hypertrophy include:
- Altered sense of smell
- Forehead pressure and facial pain
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Snoring
Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy Risk Factors
Common risk factors of nasal turbinate hypertrophy include:
- Living in an urban dense population
- Constant seasonal change
- Constant temperature changes
How Can I Medically Treat Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy?
Avoiding anything you are allergic to or taking antihistamines like Claritin may help reduce nasal congestion caused by allergies. Saline rinses can wash out dust and mucous from the nose that may make your breathing better. Discontinuing medications that cause nasal congestion can help you breathe better as well. Decongestant pills or sprays can open the nose but may cause increased blood pressure or rebound congestion. Nasal steroids can also decrease swelling inside of the nose. Montelukast sprays can improve nasal congestion, as well.
How Can We Help?
Dr. Moustafa Mourad is a highly skilled specialist in nasal surgery, with extensive expertise in performing procedures like inferior turbinate reduction. This type of surgery is often recommended for patients suffering from chronic nasal obstruction caused by conditions such as turbinate hypertrophy, where the soft tissues inside the nasal passages become enlarged, blocking airflow. Dr. Mourad’s expertise in nasal surgery covers a wide range of procedures aimed at improving nasal function, resolving breathing issues, and enhancing the overall quality of life for his patients.
At Dr. Mourad’s Upper East Side practice, you will receive a personalized evaluation to identify the specific factors contributing to your nasal obstruction. The consultation begins with a comprehensive medical history review, focusing on any symptoms or conditions affecting your nasal passages, such as chronic congestion, allergies, or sinus infections. Dr. Mourad will listen closely to your concerns to gain a full understanding of how your nasal issues are affecting your daily life and well-being.