Is it effective to spray physiological saline water on enlarged nasal turbinates?

In general, physiological saline can help relieve mild nasal congestion and mucosal dryness caused by mild inferior turbinate hypertrophy, but its effectiveness is limited for severe hypertrophy or organic lesions. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a doctor in advance. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the turbinate hypertrophy is mild and mainly due to inflammation or dryness of the nasal mucosa causing swelling, spraying physiological saline can clean secretions and allergens from the nasal cavity, moisturize the mucous membrane, reduce swelling caused by inflammatory irritation, temporarily alleviate nasal congestion, and improve nasal airflow. It is suitable as a daily care method to assist in relieving discomfort.

However, if the turbinate hypertrophy is severe with obvious organic proliferation, or caused by conditions such as nasal polyps or sinusitis, physiological saline cannot reduce the enlarged turbinate tissue nor address the underlying cause. It may only provide temporary relief of surface symptoms and cannot fundamentally improve breathing problems. In such cases, medication or surgical intervention is required alongside saline use for effective disease management.

Physiological saline should be used correctly, avoiding excessive or overly frequent spraying. If nasal congestion persists or worsens after use, or is accompanied by headache or reduced sense of smell, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to identify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment to prevent disease progression.