Will the nose become larger if the nasal concha is hypertrophic?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on March 21, 2025
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Nasal turbinate hypertrophy is a relatively common otolaryngological condition. This condition mainly involves the growth and thickening of the tissue in the lower or middle nasal concha inside the nasal cavity. However, it does not affect the overall appearance of the nose; there are no obvious changes or deformities, nor significant enlargement. Symptoms of nasal turbinate hypertrophy may include nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, headache, and dizziness. Upon experiencing these symptoms, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist for a nasopharyngoscope examination to assess the extent of the inflammatory response. In terms of treatment, most patients may consider using nasal spray medication and oral medication, while a small portion of patients might need to consider surgical treatment.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What are the symptoms of turbinate hypertrophy?

The symptoms of turbinate hypertrophy vary among individuals. Some patients just have simple turbinate hypertrophy with no obvious clinical symptoms, while others may experience nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, headaches, dizziness, and memory decline. However, generally speaking, most cases are not very severe. It is necessary to visit an otolaryngology department for a nasopharyngoscopy to ascertain the specific extent of the hypertrophy, and to check for any nasal inflammation, sinusitis, or nasal neoplasms. In terms of treatment, most patients primarily receive oral medications and nasal spray treatments. A small number of patients may need to consider surgical treatment. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Can you eat eggs if you have enlarged nasal turbinates?

Patients with hypertrophic turbinates can eat eggs; there is no issue with that. Eggs are rich in protein, which can enhance the body's immunity and resistance, offering significant benefits to patients with hypertrophic turbinates. Hypertrophic turbinates are simply a clinical manifestation, commonly caused by chronic rhinitis or chronic allergic rhinitis. Following hypertrophy of the turbinates, patients typically experience persistent bilateral nasal congestion, accompanied by a sensation of a foreign body in the nose, swelling, and mucous nasal discharge. A detailed examination with an endoscope at the hospital can confirm the diagnosis. During the examination, diffuse congestion and edema of the bilateral inferior turbinates can be observed. For treatment, initial steps can include nebulized inhalation therapy to shrink the turbinates and alleviate nasal congestion, along with regular physical exercise to restore the function of the nasal mucosa. If conservative treatment is ineffective, local surgical treatment may be necessary.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is minimally invasive treatment effective for enlarged turbinates?

Turbinate hypertrophy primarily considers conservative medication in treatment aspects. However, a portion of patients does not respond well to medication and may need to consider minimally invasive surgery. One common procedure is endoscopic surgery, which can perform turbinate reduction ablation. Many patients gradually improve after surgery, and their clinical symptoms also diminish. However, individual differences in treatment outcomes still exist. Post-surgery, it is essential to regularly follow up and observe changes in the patient's condition. Additionally, some patients might need combined therapy involving oral and nasal spray medications and can benefit from nasal irrigation with saline solution as an adjunctive treatment. (Please follow the doctor's prescription when taking medications.)

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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.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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How to deal with nasal polyps and enlarged turbinates?

Nasal polyps and hypertrophic turbinates require surgical treatment because both are manifestations of chronic inflammation in rhinitis. Medical treatment alone is not very effective in these cases. Nasal polyps and hypertrophic turbinates mainly cause poor nasal ventilation, and over time, can also affect the drainage of the sinuses. Therefore, in patients with significantly enlarged nasal polyps, who often also suffer from chronic sinusitis, treatment involves the endoscopic removal of nasal polyps and partial resection of the inferior turbinate, along with the opening of the sinus passages. This is a systematic and comprehensive treatment approach. After surgery, it is crucial to follow a prescribed medication regimen, as this ensures the effectiveness of the surgery. If surgery is performed without subsequent medication, the results may not be very good. Additionally, regular postoperative check-ups and cleanings are essential to maintain the effectiveness of the surgery and to prevent long-term recurrence. Many patients who cease medication and do not return for follow-up cleanings after surgery are likely to experience a quick recurrence.