Adenoid (adenoid) problem in children

The adenoid is part of the lymphoid tissue (similar to the tonsils) located at the back of the nose. Adenoids help the body fight infections, but in some children, adenoids can become enlarged and cause a variety of problems. This condition is known as adenoid hypertrophy.

Adenoid hypertrophy is common especially in children aged 3-7 years. Enlarged adenoids can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, snoring, sleeping with an open mouth, sleep apnea, ear infections, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and hearing loss in children.

The diagnosis of adenoid hypertrophy is made by a physical examination by a doctor and, if necessary, by an imaging test. Depending on the size of the adenoids and the symptoms, the doctor will create a treatment plan.

Treatment options include medication, adenoid surgery, and CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy for sleep apnea. Drug therapy can be used to relieve symptoms caused by adenoid hypertrophy. However, drug therapy does not reduce the size of adenoids.

The surgical option, adenotomy, involves surgical removal of the adenoids. Adenotomy is usually performed under local or general anesthesia with a one-day hospital stay and there is usually a quick recovery period.

In the case of adenoid hypertrophy, it's important to talk to your doctor about treatment options and create an appropriate treatment plan to help control your symptoms.