How to reduce swollen nasal turbinates?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 20, 2024
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Enlarged turbinates are a relatively common clinical symptom, with numerous potential causes. If the enlargement is simply physiological, it generally does not require special treatment. However, if it is due to an inflammatory reaction, such as rhinitis or sinusitis, this can lead to corresponding clinical symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, and reduced sense of smell, necessitating consideration of medication. Common treatments include oral medications and corticosteroid nasal sprays, typically over a treatment cycle of about one to two weeks. Additionally, rinsing the nasal cavity with saline solution can be beneficial. With standardized treatment, most cases will gradually decrease in swelling. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific conditions.)

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Can you drink alcohol with enlarged turbinates?

It is best not to drink alcohol if you have enlarged turbinates, as alcohol can stimulate the dilation of blood vessels, leading to congestion and swelling of the turbinates, which in turn exacerbates nasal congestion symptoms. Enlarged turbinates are just a clinical presentation, not a disease. The most common cause of enlarged turbinates in clinical settings is chronic rhinitis. Chronic rhinitis results from repeated acute inflammatory stimuli, causing congestion, swelling, and hyperplasia of the turbinate mucosa. Patients may experience bilateral nasal congestion that progressively worsens and may also have abnormal secretions in the nasal cavity. During an examination with an electronic rhinoscope, pronounced congestion and swelling in both middle and lower turbinates can be observed, sometimes showing mulberry-like changes on the surface. For treatment, patients may need to undergo a partial inferior turbinectomy, which requires hospitalization, and recovery is typically about one week before discharge.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to cure hypertrophic turbinates permanently?

Enlarged turbinates are a relatively common clinical symptom with many causes. It may be due to chronic rhinitis, hypertrophic rhinitis, or allergic rhinitis, and it can also be caused by bone hyperplasia of the turbinates. There are various treatment methods available, but it is still difficult to achieve a complete and permanent cure. Generally, medical treatment is the main approach, commonly involving nasal sprays, oral medications, and saline nasal irrigation. If standard medical treatments are ineffective, surgical options like turbinate ablation or partial resection of the turbinate bone can be considered. However, regular follow-ups to monitor the outcome are necessary. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can hypertrophic turbinates be seen with the naked eye?

Enlarged turbinates are a relatively common clinical manifestation and can usually be seen through visual inspection. Generally, the enlargement is primarily of the inferior turbinates. With the use of an anterior rhinoscope to open the nostrils, one can directly observe the extent of inferior turbinate enlargement. This also helps to clarify its relationship with the nasal cavity and aids in the diagnosis of potential rhinitis or sinusitis. In terms of treatment, if the enlargement is simply physiological without significant clinical symptoms, treatment might not be necessary, but regular follow-ups to monitor the condition are advised. If the enlargement is due to an inflammatory reaction, consideration may be given to oral medications and nasal sprays, along with rinsing the nasal cavity with saline solution. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Does nasal turbinate hypertrophy easily cause nosebleeds?

If we are only talking about simple hypertrophy of the turbinates, it generally does not easily lead to nosebleeds. Enlarged turbinates might cause nasal congestion, runny nose, and could also lead to a decreased sense of smell, headaches, or dizziness, but some patients may not have obvious clinical symptoms and are only discovered during a physical examination. Therefore, patients with turbinate hypertrophy need to seek consultation at an otolaryngology department after experiencing relevant clinical symptoms. Examinations such as nasal endoscopy, routine blood tests, and sinus CT scans can be helpful in assessing the specific severity of the condition and the cause of the disease. Once diagnosed, targeted treatment can be administered and regular follow-ups are required to monitor the treatment effects.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can nasal turbinates hypertrophy be treated with nasal irrigation?

Enlarged nasal turbinates are a relatively common clinical presentation, often associated with rhinitis and sinusitis, and can also be due to exposure to external irritants. Nasal washing is one option to consider. The most commonly used method is saline nasal irrigation, and physiological seawater can also be used. Typically, washing is recommended two to three times a day. If there is an inflammatory response, medication may also be necessary. Common treatments include oral medications and nasal sprays, with a treatment period usually lasting more than a week. After starting medication, regular follow-ups are needed to monitor recovery, and most patients generally respond well to treatment.