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What is Turbinate?

Published in Nasal Anatomy 2 mins read

Turbinates are long, thin bones inside the nose, crucial for healthy nasal function.

Understanding Nasal Turbinates

The nasal cavity is lined with three pairs of bony structures called turbinates. These bones are covered in a layer of soft tissue, and play a vital role in:

  • Warming Air: As air enters the nose, it passes over the turbinates, which warm the air to body temperature.
  • Humidifying Air: The moist tissue covering the turbinates adds moisture to the air before it reaches the lungs.
  • Filtering Air: Turbinates help filter out dust and other particles before they enter the respiratory system.

How Turbinates Function

The tissue covering the turbinates can expand and contract, regulating airflow through the nasal passages. This expansion is a natural response to conditions like allergies or nasal irritations, where the turbinates swell, sometimes leading to breathing difficulties.

Problems with Turbinates

When the tissue covering the turbinates becomes inflamed or swollen, it can cause several issues, such as:

  • Nasal Congestion: Swollen turbinates can block airflow, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
  • Mouth Breathing: As a result of nasal blockage, people might start breathing through their mouths.
  • Nasal Discharge: Increased mucus production from irritated turbinates can lead to nasal discharge.

Causes of Turbinate Swelling:

  • Allergies: Exposure to allergens like pollen or pet dander can trigger inflammation.
  • Infections: Respiratory infections like colds or the flu can cause turbinates to swell.
  • Irritants: Exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke or pollution can also cause swelling.

Treatment for Turbinate Problems

When nasal congestion due to turbinate swelling becomes a problem, there are treatment options available:

  • Medications: Nasal sprays or antihistamines can help reduce inflammation.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery can be done to open blocked airways by reducing the size of turbinates.

According to the provided reference, "The inside walls of the nose have 3 pairs of long thin bones covered with a layer of tissue that can expand. These bones are called nasal turbinates. Allergies or other nasal problems can cause the turbinates to swell and block airflow. Surgery can be done to open blocked airways and improve your breathing."