Sinusitis Causes - Causes – Anatomical Causes - Abnormal Turbinates

Abnormal Turbinates - Swelling of the turbinates, three small bony projections inside the nose, can also cause nasal blockage. The turbinates serve a useful function by providing increased surface area to warm and humidify air that passes through the nasal passages. But an infection or allergies can cause them to swell and interfere with nasal drainage. A concha bullosa is a common anatomical variation that occurs when an air pocket forms in the middle turbinate. On a CT scan, a concha bullosa looks almost like a small balloon with a thin, bony lining. If you develop this condition, you may be symptom-free, or you may have facial pain and pressure and nasal blockage. A concha bullosa is easily corrected with endoscopic sinus surgery.