Concha Enlargement and Treatment

What is Concha?

Conchae are capillary-rich structures in the nose that regulate the nasal passages. The turbinates perform important tasks such as filtering, moisturizing and warming the inhaled air. There are three main turbinates:

• Inferior turbinate: It is the largest and most functionally important turbinate.

• Middle turbinate: Located near the sinus drainage pathways.

• Upper Concha (Superior Turbinate): It has a smaller structure and is mostly related to the olfactory function.

What is Concha Enlargement?

Concha enlargement is a condition in which the turbinates increase above their normal size for various reasons. This can cause nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.

Causes of Concha Enlargement

1. Allergic Rhinitis: The turbinates swell due to allergens such as pollen, dust, animal hair.

2. Infections The turbinates may swell due to upper respiratory tract infections or sinusitis.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal conditions such as pregnancy can lead to concha enlargement.

4. Structural Factors: Curvature of the nasal septum (septum deviation) may prevent the conchae from working in harmony.

5. Chemicals and Irritants: Cigarette smoke or chemical vapors can irritate the turbinates.

Symptoms of Concha Enlargement

• Constant nasal congestion

• Runny nose (rhinitis)

• Snoring and sleep apnea

• Susceptibility to infections such as sinusitis

• Mouth breathing habit

• Loss of smell

Diagnosis of Concha Enlargement

An enlarged turbinate is diagnosed with a detailed nasal examination by an ENT specialist. Endoscopic examination or imaging methods such as computed tomography can also be used.

Treatment Options

Treatment of an enlarged turbinate differs depending on the cause and severity of the disease:

Medical Treatment

• Decongestant nasal sprays

• Antihistamines (for allergic rhinitis)

• Corticosteroid sprays

• Nasal washing with saline solutions

Surgical Treatment

Surgical options are considered in cases where medical treatment is not beneficial:

• Radiofrequency Ablation: Radiofrequency waves applied to the turbinates shrink the enlarged tissue.

• Concha Reduction Surgery: Excess tissue is surgically removed.

• Concha Lateralization: The turbinates are pushed to the sides.

• Surgery with Microdebrider: Excess tissue is precisely removed with microdevices.

Post-Surgical Recovery

The healing process after surgery is usually fast. Patients can return to their daily activities within 1-2 weeks. However, it may take up to 4-6 weeks for full recovery.

Complications

As with any surgical intervention, there are some risks in turbinate surgery:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Dry nose (Empty Nose Syndrome)

• Loss of odor

Concha enlargement can be controlled with the correct diagnosis and treatment. It is important to consult a specialized ENT doctor to regain airway patency and improve quality of life.