Our bodies have three pairs of turbinates, which are long, curled bones covered with respiratory mucosa (lining) that warm and humidify the air we inhale and regulate breathing through the nasal passages. These three pairs of turbinates are classified as inferior, middle, and superior. They are all divided by the nasal septum. Sometimes, these turbinates become swollen and enlarged, interfering with breathing.
What Are Swollen Turbinates?
The turbinates play a crucial role in allowing us to breathe properly. Allergies, infections, exposure to environmental irritants, and anatomical variations such as a deviated septum can cause swelling. Inferior turbinates that swell to the point that they cause nasal obstruction are called hyperplastic turbinates.
Swollen Turbinates Treatment
Symptoms of swollen turbinates can range from mild to severe. Mild cases may respond to standard medications like over-the-counter decongestants. However, this can only bring temporary relief and should not be used for more than three or four days, or symptoms can worsen. Standard medications may also include nasal sprays and steroids, or antibiotics if the swelling is due to bacterial infections.
In severe cases where the symptoms don’t respond to medications, surgery may be required.
Surgical Procedures for Turbinate Reduction
There are a number of surgical procedures for turbinate reduction. These procedures aim to help clear the nasal airways and improve nasal breathing in select patients. However, not all patients experience the same results, and risks should be considered.
These procedures include:
Turbinate Resection
This procedure involves removing all or part of the inferior turbinate to potentially widen the nasal airway. Submucous resection aims to preserve the mucosa of the turbinate to reduce potential side effects.
Laser Surgery
This procedure uses a beam of light on the inferior turbinate to create lesions, allowing removal. This is a minimally invasive procedure and may involve fewer complications than traditional surgery. Although side effects such as bleeding, crusting, or recurrence are still possible. In some cases, the mucosa may regenerate, which could require additional laser treatments. Potential risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed with your provider before proceeding.
Cryosurgery
Instead of a laser, this procedure uses extreme cold to destroy the turbinates through freezing. However, some studies suggest that it may have lower long-term efficacy compared to resection surgery.
Radiofrequency
This procedure involves using a probe that delivers heat from high-frequency alternating current to destroy swollen turbinates
Individual results vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed. Talk to your care provider about which treatment option is best for your condition.
Explore Turbinate Reduction Procedures With New Braunfels Breathe Free
Swollen turbinates are one of many potential causes of nasal obstruction and breathing difficulties. Our team at New Braunfels Breathe Free can conduct a personalized evaluation to determine whether swollen turbinates are contributing to your symptoms and which treatment is appropriate for your case.
Individual results may vary. Information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In the event of a medical emergency, call 911.