Turbinate Hypertrophy
Turbinates perform important functions in the body, humidifying, filtering, and warming the air we breathe and protecting the lungs.
When turbinates become enlarged as a result of sinus inflammation, environmental irritants, allergies, and other factors, it can impair normal breathing and contribute to headaches, snoring, and sleep apnea. This condition is known as turbinate hypertrophy (enlargement).
As with any ailment, Dr. Darakshan will first try to treat turbinate hypertrophy with medications and non-surgical procedures. When enlarged turbinates fail to respond to non-invasive medical therapies,
Dr. Darakshan can perform turbinate reduction surgery to correct nasal obstruction by reducing the size of the turbinates while preserving their natural function.
Chronic nasal obstruction, or a stuffy nose, is often caused by enlargement (hypertrophy) of the inferior nasal turbinates. Chronic nasal obstruction can impair normal breathing, forcing patients to breathe through the mouth and often affects their daily activities.
Enlarged turbinates and nasal congestion can also contribute to headaches and sleep disorders such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, as the nasal airway is the normal breathing route during sleep.
REASONS
FOR TURBINATE HYPERTROPHY
- Allergies
- Environmental irritants (such as cigarette or cigar smoke)
- Persistent sinus inflammation
- Aging process
- Congenital variations
- Pregnancy or other hormonal changes
TURBINATE REDUCTION SURGERY AND SEPTAL SURGERY
Inferior turbinate hypertrophy is common in patients with a deviated septum. The turbinates tend to be smaller on the side of the septal deviation (the smaller nostril) and larger on the opposite side, as the body is attempting to compensate for the anatomical difference. Breathing may be impaired by the septal obstruction in one nostril and by the enlarged turbinate in the other. Turbinate reduction surgery is often performed in conjunction with nasal septal surgery.
It is common to have a nasal septal deviation in addition to inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Turbinates tend to be smaller on the side of the septal deviation and larger on the side opposite from the deviation. This makes sense because the body often tries to compensate for anatomic differences. When the septum deviates to one side of the nasal cavity, it takes up more space and the body adjusts by making the turbinates on that side smaller. In the other half of the nasal cavity, there is more space available and thus the turbinates there are larger. Deviation of the nasal septum and/or enlargement of turbinates are two of the main causes of nasal obstruction.
Allergy or irritant-related turbinate hypertrophy usually responds well to medical treatment. In treating the underlying cause, the turbinate swelling is often reduced and the problem is solved. Unfortunately, long-term chronic swelling can become irreversible and unresponsive to medical therapy. In these situations, turbinate reduction surgery may be required to help reduce the symptoms.
TURBINATE REDUCTION PROCEDURE
Dr. Darakshan can help you with a procedure to reduce the overall size of the turbinate, allowing for greater airflow and relief of nasal obstruction and congestion, while preserving the critical function of the turbinates.
performed under local anesthesia in the office or under general anesthesia in an operating room.
- The procedure is performed entirely through the nostrils — there are no incisions made on the skin.
- The surgeon makes an incision in the mucosa lining the turbinate.
- The turbinate is then reduced by thinning the tissue inside. microdebrider may be used to thin the tissue or the tissue may be cauterized with radio frequency or electrical current by endoscopy
- After the turbinate is reduced, it is pushed outward to increase the space between the turbinate and the septum, allowing more air to flow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is turbinate hypertrophy, and how does it affect my breathing?
Turbinate hypertrophy occurs when the nasal turbinates—small, scroll-like structures inside the nose—become enlarged due to inflammation or other factors. This enlargement can obstruct airflow, leading to symptoms such as chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, and even sleep disturbances. The condition can be triggered by allergies, infections, irritants, or hormonal changes.
How does your ENT team approach the treatment of turbinate hypertrophy?
Our specialists take a comprehensive and personalized approach to managing turbinate hypertrophy. We begin with a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and, if necessary, imaging studies to assess the extent of the turbinate enlargement. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs and may include:
Medications: To reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Nasal irrigation: Using saline solutions to rinse nasal passages and clear mucus.
Surgical options: In cases where medical management is insufficient, procedures like turbinoplasty or radiofrequency ablation may be considered to reduce turbinate size and improve airflow.
We also emphasize patient education to help manage and mitigate symptoms effectively.
What lifestyle changes can help manage turbinate hypertrophy?
In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle modifications can help alleviate symptoms:
Avoidance of allergens: Stay indoors during high pollen seasons, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers.
Regular cleaning: Wash bedding and vacuum frequently to reduce dust mites and pet dander.
Nasal irrigation: Using saline solutions to rinse nasal passages can help clear allergens and mucus.
Showering and changing clothes: After being outdoors, to remove pollen and other allergens.
Implementing these changes can complement medical treatments and improve symptom control.
When should you consult an ENT specialist for turbinate hypertrophy?
It’s advisable to seek consultation if:
Symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatments.
Symptoms interfere with daily activities or quality of life.
You experience frequent sinus infections or nasal polyps.
You have other conditions like asthma or eczema that may be related to allergies.
Our ENT specialists can provide a thorough evaluation and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What are the potential complications of untreated turbinate hypertrophy?
If left untreated, turbinate hypertrophy can lead to:
Chronic sinusitis: Persistent inflammation can lead to sinus infections.
Nasal polyps: Noncancerous growths in the nasal passages or sinuses.
Sleep disturbances: Due to nasal congestion.
Asthma exacerbations: Allergic rhinitis can worsen asthma symptoms.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent these complications.
How is turbinate hypertrophy diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination. An ENT specialist may use a nasal endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera—to visualize the nasal passages and assess the size of the turbinates. In some cases, imaging studies like a CT scan may be recommended to evaluate the nasal structures in more detail.
Can turbinate hypertrophy affect children and older adults differently?
Yes. Children may experience behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, or learning difficulties due to allergy symptoms. Older adults may have increased risk of sinus infections or complications from chronic congestion. Our team evaluates age-specific factors to ensure treatment is safe, effective, and tailored for every patient.
Are there long-term solutions for turbinate hypertrophy?
Long-term relief often requires a combination of targeted medical treatment and lifestyle management. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce turbinate size and improve airflow. With proper management, you can significantly reduce daily discomfort and prevent complications.