Adenoids are small tissues located behind the palate. They are similar to tonsils and are located just above them. If you look at the back of your throat you can see your tonsils, but adenoids cannot be seen directly. Actually, both adenoids and tonsils are part of the immune system, which help in preventing and fighting infection in our body. Problems arise when adenoids enlarge. These are not an important part of the immune system, and can usually be treated by removing them.
Adenoids are present at birth. They grow until a child is between the ages of 3 and 5. Generally, they begin to shrink after about 7 years of age. In adulthood they are significantly reduced. They are located in the passageway that connects the back of the nasal cavity to the throat. They produce antibodies to help your body fight infection.
During the early years, adenoids help protect babies from infection by trapping bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the nose. Adenoids that become infected usually become enlarged, but return to their normal size as the infection subsides. However, in some cases, adenoids remain enlarged even after the infection is gone. Enlarged adenoids can also be caused by allergies. Some babies have enlarged adenoids from birth.
How are adenoids treated?
Treatment depends on how severe the condition is. If your child’s enlarged adenoids are not infected, a doctor may not recommend surgery. Instead, the doctor may choose to simply wait and see if the adenoids shrink on their own as your child gets older. Till then he suggests the child to take some medicine.
In other cases, your doctor may recommend medication, such as a nasal steroid, to shrink the enlarged adenoids. However, it is common for enlarged adenoids to be removed if they continue to cause problems despite treatment with medications. The process is quite simple and does not involve many risks. This surgery is called an adenoidectomy.
adenoid removal
If a child has frequent tonsil infections, the doctor may also remove the tonsils. Tonsils and adenoids are often removed at the same time. Removal of adenoids is important, especially if your child is experiencing frequent infections that lead to sinus and ear infections. Adenoids that swell very badly can also develop infection or fluid from the middle ear, which can cause temporary hearing loss.
tonsillectomy
Your child will be given a mild sedative to help calm them down before surgery. They will then be placed under general anesthesia. The surgery lasts no more than two hours.
After the adenoids are removed, your child may experience:
- sore throat
- minor bleeding
- ear ache
- nosebleeds
The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent any infection. Your child may be given mild pain relievers for the first few days. Children are also advised to drink cold, icy drinks, such as milkshakes and ice cream, and avoid any hot food for the first seven days.
What are the symptoms of enlarged adenoids?
Enlarged adenoids can cause a number of symptoms, including:
- having trouble breathing through the nose
- ear problem
- trouble sleeping
- snoring
- sore throat
- difficulty swallowing food
- swollen glands in the neck
- chapped lips and dry mouth
- sleep apnea
How do doctors diagnose enlarged adenoids?
The doctor will first ask about the symptoms that your child is experiencing. Then the doctor will do a physical exam of your child. The doctor will use a special mirror and insert a small, flexible telescope through the nose to view the adenoids. Depending on what your doctor finds, the doctor may ask your child to have a blood test to check for infection. In some cases, a throat X-ray may be necessary.
What are the risks of adenoidectomy?
Risks of adenoidectomy are rare but include:
- breathing problems, ear infections, or nose problems
- heavy bleeding
- change in speech
- getting infected
- Risks from the use of anesthesia
Your doctor should thoroughly explain all the risks of adenoid removal and answer your questions before agreeing to the procedure.
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