Turbinate Hypotrophy: Causes and Symptoms

Turbinate hypertrophy

Turbinate hypertrophy is a condition that increases the size of the nasal turbinates. In some cases this is intermittent. However, in other cases, it’s continuous. When the problem becomes chronic, it produces nasal congestion that’s almost constant.

Nasal turbinates are long structures that are located within the nose. The nasal cavity contains three sets of turbinates on each side, which are the superior turbinates, middle turbinates, and the inferior turbinates. Inflammation, in general, affects the inferior turbinates.

The function of the turbinates is to humidify, warm, and cleanse the air that we inhale. However, these are very delicate organs that can easily swell and change in size. This leads to hypertrophy, which is a treatable health problem.

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Why does it occur?

In most cases, turbinate hypotrophy occurs as a result of some allergic processes, such as hay fever. However, many other reasons can also produce this anomaly. Among these are the following:

• Hormonal changes. Hormonal changes can cause increases in the mucus membrane, which can lead to turbinate hypotrophy.
• Aging. As time goes by, the turbinates may degrade, producing the abundant secretion of mucus and nasal obstruction.
• Sinusitis. The inflammation of the paranasal sinuses can also lead to this anomaly.
• Deviated septum. A deviated septum makes breathing difficult and demands the turbinates to work harder. This, in turn, can turn into turbinate hypotrophy.
• Inadequate environments. Environments with toxic elements and vapors or very low temperatures can facilitate the development of this anomaly.
• Smoking or drinking alcohol. Both tobacco and alcohol are risk factors in these cases.
• Pharmaceuticals. Steroids and the use of nasal sprays can contribute to the development of this disease.

The symptoms of turbinate hypotrophy

The most typical symptom of this condition is nasal congestion, whether it be intermittent or constant. However, it’s important to note that there are some cases of hypertrophy without noticeable symptoms.

Overall, the most common clinical manifestations are the following:

• Tiredness
• Sleep apnea
• Difficulting sleeping continuously (without interruptions)
• Nosebleeds
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Auditory discomfort
• Decrease or loss of smell
• Snoring
• Pain in the face

Most often, doctors will perform what’s called a rhinoscope to diagnose it. This is a study that allows them to examine the turbinates and confirm or rule out hypotrophy. This exam is done by the nose or the mouth and takes between five and ten minutes. On some occasions, it requires the use of mild anesthesia.

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What can be done in the case of turbinate hypotrophy?

The treatment of hypotrophy will depend on the underlying cause and the state of the turbinates. First of all, if the cause of the problem is external, then changing this variable should lead to the remission of symptoms.

When we talk about external symptoms, we’re referring to unhealthy environments, the ingestion of some substance or medication, etc. However, if the cause is sinusitis or a deviated septum, then treatment will be necessary to eliminate the cause. If these measures don’t work, or the cause is unknown, then doctors usually recommend pharmacological treatment to reduce inflammation .

Finally, if hypotrophy persists, doctors may suggest surgery to modify the position of the turbinates (turbinoplasty). In some cases, surgery may involve the partial or total removal of the inferior turbinate (turbinectomy). Finally, in other cases, doctors may use radiofrequency or laser to reduce the size of the turbinate.

Either way, it’s important to remember that it’s a treatable condition. The key is to seek medication attention early to ensure it doesn’t become chronic.