Turbinate Hypertrophy

Turbinate hypertrophy refers to the enlargement or swelling of the turbinates within the nasal passages. Turbinates are small, bony structures covered in soft tissue and mucous membranes, located on the sidewalls of the nasal cavity. They function to filter, warm, and humidify the air we breathe through our nose. There are three pairs of turbinates: superior, middle, and inferior turbinates.

Symptoms

Turbinate hypertrophy occurs when the turbinates in the nasal passages become enlarged or swollen, which can obstruct airflow and cause various symptoms. Common symptoms associated with turbinate hypertrophy include:

• Nasal congestion - The enlarged turbinates can obstruct the nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.

• Difficulty breathing through the nose - Partial or complete blockage of the nasal passages can lead to difficulty breathing, particularly when lying down or during sleep.

• Snoring - Obstruction of the nasal passages can contribute to snoring, as it forces the person to breathe through the mouth during sleep.

• Sleep disturbances - Difficulty breathing and snoring can lead to frequent awakenings or poor quality sleep.

• Postnasal drip - Swollen turbinates can cause excess mucus to accumulate and drip down the back of the throat, leading to a sensation of postnasal drip.

• Decreased sense of smell - Obstruction of the nasal passages can affect the sense of smell.

• Facial pressure or pain - Enlarged turbinates can cause pressure or discomfort around the nasal area.

Causes

Some common causes of turbinate hypertrophy include:

• Allergies - Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal turbinates.

• Chronic sinusitis - Long-term inflammation of the sinuses can contribute to turbinate hypertrophy, as the inflammation can also affect the turbinates.

• Environmental irritants - Exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, or certain chemicals, can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal turbinates.

• Hormonal changes - Hormonal fluctuations, such as those experienced during pregnancy, can lead to increased blood flow and swelling of the nasal tissues, including the turbinates.

• Infections - Viral or bacterial infections, like the common cold or sinus infections, can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal turbinates.

• Vasomotor rhinitis - This non-allergic form of rhinitis is caused by an abnormal response of the blood vessels within the nasal lining to certain triggers, such as changes in temperature, humidity, or strong odors. This can lead to increased blood flow and swelling of the turbinates.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are suffering from turbinate hypertrophy, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified and fellowship trained in rhinology, our physician at Sensa Health has extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of nose conditions. Call or text our office at 213-267-2256 to schedule an appointment today.