Adenoiditis in Children: Signs, Symptoms, and Management
The adenoids are tissue patches located at the very rear of the nasal passage/top of the throat. Some parents may mistake the adenoids for the tonsils, which can be seen at the back of the throat. A typical nose or throat exam, however, does not reveal the adenoids. The adenoids, like the tonsils, play a crucial role in the defence of newborns and young children when hazardous germs and viruses are breathed or eaten.
As your child grows older, the adenoids become less important as the body learns how to fight infection. In childhood, the adenoids begin to shrink. They continue to grow smaller as they get older. Adenoids do not normally regenerate, though this is not always the case.
Enlarged Adenoids Symptoms
Because the adenoids are on the front lines of the body's defences, they may grow momentarily when they combat infections. Chronic enlargement can be caused by a variety of diseases, allergies, and other reasons. Your child may suffer the following symptoms if his or her adenoids enlarge:
- Breathing through the nose is difficult.
- Breathing via the mouth causes bad breath and dry lips.
- It sounds like the nose is constricted or packed.
- Sinus symptoms occur frequently.
Snoring.
- Disruptive sleep apnea or restless sleep.
- In school-age children, persistent middle ear infections or fluid buildup.
- In order to diagnose swollen adenoids, your doctor may undertake a simple physical examination of the nose, throat, ears, and neck along the jaw.
Adenoid Enlargement Treatment
If your child has very minor symptoms, no therapy is usually required. If the illness is bacterial, your doctor may prescribe a nasal spray to assist reduce swelling, as well as an antibiotic. An adenoidectomy is another therapy option for more severe instances.
Children undergoing adenoidectomy
Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of adenoids through the open mouth while your child is under general anaesthesia for around 30 minutes. It is an outpatient operation that can be combined with a tonsillectomy. Your doctor may recommend an adenoidectomy if your child:
- Has had several episodes of adenoid infection, followed by middle ear infections or fluid buildup in the ear.
- While using an antibiotic, there is no improvement in the bacterial illness.
- Suffers from nasal airway obstruction.
- Obstructive sleep apnea develops.
- Has sinusitis on a regular basis.
Your child's adenoidectomy recovery may include several days of mild to moderate pain and discomfort that commonly responds to over-the-counter Tylenol or Ibuprofen. For a brief period of time, your child may have a runny nose and unpleasant breath. Keep your child hydrated with bland, non-carbonated liquids like apple juice and broth, and make sure he or she follows your surgeon's diet.
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