Nasal Congestion Is Not Always Caused by Allergies

Nasal Congestion Is Not Always Caused by Allergies

Op. Dr. Nimet Özalp Devseren pointed out that a deviated nasal septum and enlarged nasal turbinates can make breathing difficult, emphasizing that structural problems should also be evaluated in cases of persistent nasal congestion despite medication and nasal spray treatments.

As autumn approaches, complaints such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose tend to increase. However, emphasizing that not every case of nasal congestion is caused by allergies, Op. Dr. Nimet Özalp Devseren, an Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases Specialist at Özel ENTO Ear, Nose and Throat Surgical Medical Center, said: “In particular, a deviated septum and enlarged nasal turbinates can cause a person to breathe through the mouth, snore, and experience poor sleep quality. While allergy-related enlargement of the nasal turbinates can be controlled to some extent with medication and nasal sprays, a deviated septum is a structural problem and cannot be corrected with medication.”

WHEN IS SURGERY NECESSARY?

Devseren stated that surgical treatment may be considered when nasal congestion significantly affects quality of life and medical treatments do not provide sufficient relief. She said: “If nasal congestion persists despite medication, nasal sprays, or allergy treatments, and symptoms such as sleeping with the mouth open at night, snoring, poor sleep quality, and waking up tired occur, a surgical evaluation may be necessary. In addition, problems such as recurrent sinusitis attacks, persistent headaches, a feeling of pressure or fullness in the face, and loss of the sense of smell may also accompany structural problems inside the nose.”

Dr. Devseren also stated that prolonged and uncontrolled use of decongestant nasal sprays can lead to enlargement of the nasal turbinates and make it difficult for a person to breathe without using the spray. She added: “If the enlargement of the nasal turbinates is caused by allergies or an infection, some reduction can be achieved with medication and nasal sprays, particularly in the early stages. However, a deviated septum cannot be corrected with medication. In such cases, surgical treatment may be considered depending on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient’s quality of life.”

https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/yerel-haberler/izmir/burun-tikanikliginin-nedeni-her-zaman-alerji-olmayabilir-43318191