What are Nasal Turbinates?

Also known as the nasal conchae, the nasal turbinates are a set of bony, finger-like structures located within the nose. The turbinates form long, narrow passageways, through which the air passes as we breathe in. They are covered with a tissue called mucosa (also known as mucous membrane) which is found in areas of the body that are exposed to external particles. The mucosa covering the nasal turbinates protects the inside of the nose from particles found in the air. It also plays an essential role for our immunity by stopping pathogens from passing into our body.

Typically, there are three sets of nasal turbinates in each nostril—the superior, middle, and inferior turbinates. In some cases, the turbinates or mucosa can become inflamed or swollen, known as turbinate hypertrophy or swollen nasal turbinates. This can cause breathing difficulties, which may impact well-being, create challenges when exercising, or affect sleep patterns.

There are several treatment options for resolving swollen turbinates and the issues they can cause. This can effectively improve quality of life. 

What are the Symptoms of Swollen Turbinates?

Generally, the primary symptom of enlarged turbinates is difficulty breathing. It is important to understand that this may not be noticeable during normal daily activities, but there are other common signs which may indicate that breathing has been affected and connected turbinate inflammation.

• Changes in sense of smell
• Headaches, or a feeling of pressure in your forehead
• Mild facial pain
• A blocked or stuffy nose
• A persistently runny nose
• Sleeping issues, including snoring or waking up with a dry mouth due to sleeping with your mouth open because of difficulty comfortably breathing through your nose at night
• Increased sinus infections
• Frequent nose bleeds

Having swollen nasal turbinates can feel like a stubborn cold or allergies that aren’t alleviated with the usual treatments.

The symptoms of nasal conchae inflammation are very similar to a deviated septum. If you are having breathing difficulties which are impacting any of your normal activities or wellbeing, it is important to speak with an ENT surgeon who can perform the right checks and tests to establish the cause of your concerns and recommend the right treatment plan. 

What Causes Swollen Turbinates?

Turbinate inflammation can arise for a number of reasons. There are two types of nasal turbinate hypertrophy:

• Acute turbinate hypertrophy: This comes on suddenly and the symptoms are immediately severe. However, once the trigger has been removed, it typically resolves.
• Chronic turbinate hypertrophy: This develops over a long period of time, allowing the symptoms to slowly worsen. This may require ongoing management.

The type of turbinate hypertrophy that a person has may be connected to the cause. This isn’t always the case and it is important to establish any triggers or irritants you are exposed to.

Common reasons people may develop swollen turbinates include: 

Chronic sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) 

Chronic sinusitis may result from an untreated or persistent infection, nasal polyps (growths in the sinuses) or other irritation within the nose. Sinusitis commonly occurs after a cold or flu. It usually clears up without treatment within four weeks, and is considered chronic if it has continued for more than twelve weeks. If you have had sinusitis for more than four weeks and it isn’t improving, it is important to speak to a doctor. 

Environmental irritants

Irritants found naturally in the environment or in spaces where you spend a lot of time may aggravate the nasal conchae, leading to inflammation. This could include pollution, pet hair, dust, or particles found in the air in jobs such as construction. Removing the irritants is the best way to manage this cause however, if this is not possible, preventative measures such as wearing a mask where possible may help. 

Seasonal allergies

Also known as hay fever, seasonal allergies triggered by pollen through Spring and Summer are a common condition, affecting up to 20% of people at some stage during their lives. Typical symptoms include sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. It can usually be managed through over-the-counter antihistamine medication. However, in more severe cases, it is important to speak to a doctor.

These conditions and triggers can all cause the bony structures of the nasal turbinates, or the mucosa surrounding them, to become swollen and enlarged, affecting breathing. In cases where this is brought on by seasonal allergies or temporary exposure to environmental irritants, it is likely that once the trigger is removed, the inflammation will resolve. However, for individuals who are exposed to irritants over a long period of time or who experience ongoing sinusitis, swollen turbinates may become a longer-term concern. 
 

Treatment for Swollen Turbinates

Treatment for swollen turbinates will depend on the severity and cause of the concern, as well as how long it has been a problem. A specialist ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeon will be able to comprehensively assess your concerns and recommend the best treatment plan to improve your breathing. 

Non-Surgical Enlarged Nasal Turbinates Treatment

Typically, doctors will suggest initially trying non-surgical treatment for swollen turbinates. This may include lifestyle changes or medication. 

Surgical Enlarged Nasal Turbinates Treatment

In cases of chronic inflamed nasal turbinates or where non-surgical treatment options aren’t proving effective, nasal turbinate surgery may be recommended. Turbinate Reduction Surgery is highly effective and a popular choice for many patients experiencing breathing difficulties caused by enlarged turbinates. 

If you are interested in discussing nasal conchae inflammation and Nasal Turbinate Reduction Surgery with a leading Consultant ENT surgeon, get in touch with our specialist surgical patient advisors who will discuss your concerns, and book your initial consultation. 

Words From Our Founder