What are the symptoms of nasal hemangioma?

Under normal circumstances, the main symptoms of nasal hemangioma include epistaxis (nosebleeds), nasal obstruction, local swelling or mass, reduced sense of smell, and headaches. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Epistaxis (Nosebleeds)

Nasal hemangiomas are composed of numerous proliferating blood vessels with thin, fragile walls. These vessels are prone to rupture and bleeding when subjected to airflow, dryness of the nasal mucosa, or minor contact. Bleeding may present as intermittent minor oozing or sudden, heavy hemorrhage. The frequency and volume of bleeding tend to increase as the hemangioma grows in size. While some patients may experience spontaneous cessation of bleeding, recurrent episodes can lead to anemia.

2. Nasal Obstruction

As the hemangioma enlarges, it occupies space within the nasal cavity and compresses surrounding healthy tissues, leading to narrowing of the nasal passage and resulting in nasal blockage. The obstruction is typically unilateral; however, if the tumor is located in the middle or posterior part of the nasal cavity, it may progress to bilateral obstruction. The severity of blockage increases with tumor growth and may become more pronounced during nighttime when lying down.

3. Local Swelling or Mass

Some nasal hemangiomas protrude outward from the inner nasal wall. Nasal endoscopy may reveal a soft, smooth-surfaced, red or purplish-red mass that bleeds easily upon contact. Larger tumors may cause slight swelling of the lateral nasal wall or ala nasi, which can be visibly observed as a localized bulge in the nasal area.

4. Reduced Sense of Smell (Hyposmia)

Normal olfactory function depends on odor molecules reaching the olfactory mucosa. When a hemangioma occupies space in the nasal cavity or compresses the olfactory region, it impedes the transmission of odor molecules and interferes with signal perception by the olfactory nerves, leading to hyposmia. Prolonged compression may result in permanent damage to the olfactory nerves, potentially causing complete loss of smell, some of which may be irreversible.

5. Headache

A large hemangioma may compress adjacent sinuses, nerves, or blood vessels in the nasal area, causing localized pressure-related pain that may radiate to the head, manifesting as intermittent or persistent headaches. If the tumor blocks the sinus ostium, impairing drainage of sinus secretions, secondary sinusitis may develop. Inflammatory irritation from sinusitis can further exacerbate headache symptoms and may be accompanied by purulent nasal discharge.

In addition, patients with nasal hemangioma may also experience increased nasal secretions or blood-tinged nasal discharge. If any of the above symptoms occur, prompt medical consultation is advised for accurate diagnosis and early intervention to prevent symptom progression or complications.