Turbinate hypertrophy

Turbinate hypertrophy is relevant not only to nasal health, but also to general well-being. Obstruction of the nasal passages can interfere with sleep, cause daytime fatigue and affect concentration.

Who is most affected by this condition?

Turbinate hypertrophy affects a wide range of people, but is especially prevalent in those with chronic allergies, allergic rhinitis and other nasal sinus diseases. The nasal turbinates have several vital functions:

1. Air filtration: they help filter particles and pollutants from inhaled air, thus protecting the lungs.
2. Air humidification: they add moisture to the inhaled air, which prevents dryness of the airways.
3. Inhaled air temperature regulation: They heat or cool the inhaled air, ensuring that it reaches the lungs at an appropriate temperature.

Symptoms of turbinate hypertrophy include:

1. Persistent nasal congestion: difficulty breathing through the nose.
2. Difficulty breathing through the nose: sensation of nasal obstruction.
3. Snoring: caused by obstruction of airflow.
4. Facial pain: sensation of pressure in the face.
5. Ear Rrelated symptoms: sensation of fullness in the ears, tinnitus and ear congestion.

Nasal turbinates not only affect breathing, but can also have a significant impact on the health of the ear. Turbinate hypertrophy can:

• Obstruct the Eustachian tube, the canal that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. This obstruction can lead to inadequate ventilation of the middle ear, causing a build-up of fluid and increased susceptibility to ear infections, such as otitis media. 
• Cause a feeling of fullness in the ears, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and ear congestion, affecting hearing and balance. 

Therefore, it is crucial to address turbinate hypertrophy not only to improve breathing, but also to prevent hearing complications.

Diagnosis of turbinate hypertrophy includes:

1. Complete Medical History: evaluation of symptoms and medical history.
2. Physical Examination: Inspection of the nasal passages.
3. Nasal Endoscopy: Direct visualisation of the turbinates.
4. Imaging studies: Such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
5. Allergy Testing: To identify possible allergic triggers.

Non-surgical options include:

• Medications: Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
• Nasal lavage therapy: To clear the nasal passages and reduce congestion.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding allergens and improving indoor air quality.

Surgical options include:

• Turbinate Reduction (Turbinoplasty): Procedure to reduce the size of the turbinates.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: Use of radiofrequency energy to shrink the tissue.
• Laser Therapy: Use of laser to reduce the size of the turbinates.
• Microdebrider Techniques: Use of special devices to remove excess tissue.