The turbinates are crucial for breathing properly. However, allergies, viral infections, exposure to environmental irritants and a deviated septum can cause them to swell. Our providers at Chevy Chase ENT will help you find the best treatment to relieve these symptoms.
Symptoms of Enlarged Turbinates
The most notable symptom of enlarged turbinates is nasal obstruction, which blocks airflow in one or both of your nostrils.
Treating Enlarged Turbinates
Whether your symptoms require surgery or can be managed with medication, your doctor will support you through every step of treatment.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Minor cases of enlarged turbinates may respond successfully to:
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Nasal or oral steroid sprays
- Nasal saline sprays
Surgical Treatments
- Turbinate Resection. Either total or partial, this procedure involves removing all or part of the inferior turbinate while widening the nasal airway. Submucous resection aims to preserve the mucosa of the turbinate to reduce side effects.
- Laser Surgery. Lasers focus a beam of light on the inferior turbinate to create lesions that allow for removal. This is a minimally invasive procedure with few complications or side effects. However, the mucosa may regenerate, and additional laser treatments may be needed.
- Cryosurgery. This procedure is similar to laser surgery, but relies on applying extreme cold to destroy the turbinate through freezing. Its long-term effectiveness is not as good as resection surgery.
- Radiofrequency. A probe delivers heat generated from high-frequency alternating current to destroy the turbinate.
- Corticosteroid Injection. A needle injects corticosteroids directly into the inferior turbinate, often with great success.
Call Chevy Chase ENT for more information or to schedule an appointment.