What to do about hypertrophic rhinitis
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Hypertrophic rhinitis can be managed through symptomatic drug therapy, physical adjunctive treatments, surgical correction, nasal irrigation, and lifestyle adjustments. An individualized treatment plan should be selected based on the severity of the condition to prevent prolonged illness. If persistent nasal congestion, worsening headache, or decreased sense of smell occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Use intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and other medications as directed by a physician.
Hypertrophic rhinitis can be managed through symptomatic medication, physical adjunctive therapy, surgical correction, nasal irrigation, and lifestyle adjustments to prevent prolonged illness. If persistent nasal congestion, worsening headache, or reduced sense of smell occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
1. Symptomatic Medication: Use intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and other medications as prescribed by a doctor to reduce nasal mucosal congestion and swelling, thereby relieving nasal obstruction. These should be used according to the prescribed course, avoiding long-term use of decongestants which may lead to drug-induced rhinitis.
2. Physical Adjunctive Therapy: Techniques such as laser or microwave therapy can be used to coagulate and shrink hypertrophied nasal mucosa, improving nasal airflow. This approach is suitable for mild to moderate cases unresponsive to medication, with minimal invasiveness and faster recovery.
3. Surgical Correction: For patients with severe nasal mucosal hypertrophy and persistent nasal obstruction unrelieved by conservative treatment, partial turbinectomy or similar procedures can remove excess hypertrophied tissue to restore normal nasal airflow. Postoperative care is essential to prevent infection.
4. Nasal Irrigation: Daily rinsing of the nasal cavity with normal saline or seawater solution helps clear secretions and allergens, reduces irritation to the nasal mucosa, maintains moisture, and improves breathing. This is suitable as routine supportive care for all types of patients.
5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid irritants such as dust and smoke, prevent colds due to exposure to cold, maintain indoor ventilation and humidity, follow regular sleep patterns, and strengthen overall health to reduce triggers for recurrent rhinitis.
In daily life, maintain nasal hygiene, avoid forceful nose-blowing that may damage the nasal mucosa, eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, exercise moderately to boost immunity, and avoid prolonged exposure to dry and cold environments to support disease control and recovery.
