Pathology Enlarged Nasal Clams: Causes And Symptoms

The pathology of enlarged nasal mussels is a benign disease with different treatment options. However, if left untreated, it can lead to certain complications. Learn more in this article!
The pathology of enlarged nasal mussels: Causes and symptoms

The pathology of enlarged nasal mussels, or hypertrophy of the conchae nasales, is an excessive increase in the volume of the nasal mussels. These structures are in the nasal cavity, and as the size increases, the air cannot flow normally. As a result, they tend to cause nasal obstruction.

It is possible to treat and overcome this disease early, either with medication or through surgery. However, if the problem remains untreated, it can lead to serious situations. For example, it can lead to loss of odor or even ear and throat infections. It is also possible for people with this condition to have frequent headaches, dry coughs and snoring.

If you have a stuffy nose often, it is important to see an ear, nose and throat specialist. This doctor will be able to determine if you are suffering from hypertrophy or another pathology.

The pathology enlarged nasal mussels

The pathology of enlarged nasal mussels is a condition that increases the size of the nasal mussels. In some cases, this is periodic. In other cases, however, it is continuous. When the problem becomes chronic, it gives an almost stuffy nose.

The nasal mussels are long structures located in the nose. The nasal cavity contains three sets of mussels on each side, which are the upper mussels, the middle mussels and the lower nasal mussel. Inflammation generally affects the lower nasal mucosa.

The function of the nasal mussels is to moisturize, warm and clean the air that we inhale. However, these are very sensitive organs that can easily swell and change in size. This leads to hypertrophy, which is a health problem that can be treated.

Woman with pathology turbinate hypotrophy.
When hypertrophy occurs, people may experience prolonged nasal congestion.

Why does it occur?

In most cases, enlarged nasal mussels occur as a result of some allergic processes, such as hay fever. However, there can be many other reasons for this. Among these are the following:

  • Hormonal changes. Hormonal changes can lead to increases in the mucous membrane, which can lead to enlarged nasal mussels.
  • Aging. As time goes on, the nasal mussels can break down and produce abundant secretion of mucus.
  • Sinusitis. Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses can also lead to this condition.
  • Deviating septum. A deviating septum makes breathing difficult and requires the nasal mussels to work harder. This in turn can be enlarged nasal mussels.
  • Unhealthy environments. Environments with toxic elements and steam or very low temperatures can develop this.
  • Smoking or drinking alcohol. Both tobacco and alcohol are risk factors in these cases.
  • Medicines. Steroids and the use of nasal sprays can contribute to the development of this disease.

The symptoms of the pathology enlarged nasal mussels

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

Overall, the most common clinical manifestations are the following:

  • fatigue
  • sleep apnea
  • difficulty sleeping continuously (without disturbance)
  • nosebleeds
  • difficulty breathing through the nose
  • auditory discomfort
  • reduced or loss of sense of smell
  • snoring
  • pain in the face

Often the doctor will use what is called a rhinoscope to diagnose it. This is a test that allows them to check the nasal mussels and confirm or rule out hypotrophy. This examination is performed in the nose or mouth and takes between five and ten minutes. On some occasions, it requires the use of mild anesthesia.

Man snoring.
Men’s snoring is one of the clinical manifestations of hypotrophy, the most common symptom is prolonged nasal congestion.

What can be done in case of enlarged nasal mussels?

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

When we talk about external causes, we refer to unhealthy environments, intake of various drugs or medications, etc. But if the cause is sinusitis or a deviating septum, treatment will be necessary to eliminate the cause. If these measures do not work or the cause is unknown, doctors usually recommend pharmacological treatment to reduce inflammation.

Finally, if the hypotrophy persists, the doctor may suggest surgery to change the position of the nasal mussels (conchaplasty). In some cases, surgery may involve partial or complete removal of the lower nasal mucosa (conchotomy). In other cases, your doctor may use a radio frequency or laser to reduce the size of your nasal congestion.

Regardless, it is important to remember that it is a condition that can be treated. The key is to seek medication early to ensure it does not become chronic.

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