Enlarged adenoidsDefinition: Enlarged adenoids refers to swollen lymphatic tissue in the back of the nose. The tissue is similar to the tonsils.
Alternative Names: Adenoids - enlarged
Causes, incidence, and risk factors: Enlargement of the adenoids may occur naturally (beginning during fetal development), or it may be caused by long-term inflammation.
Symptoms: - Mouth breathing (mostly at night)
- Dry mouth
- Cracked lips
- Mouth open during day (more severe obstruction)
- Bad breath
- Persistent runny nose or nasal congestion
- Frequent ear infections
- Snoring
- Restlessness while sleeping
- Intermittent sleep apnea
Signs and tests: The adenoids cannot be seen by looking in the mouth directly, but can be seen with a special mirror or using a flexible endoscope through the nose. Tests may include: - X-ray (side view of the throat)
- Sleep apnea studies (severe cases only)
Treatment: Surgical removal of the adenoids (adenoidectomy ) will prevent complications, and will cure complications if they already exist from enlarged adenoids. Antibiotics may be used to treat tonsil, adenoid, and sinus infections when they occur.
Expectations (prognosis): Full recovery is expected. Right-sided heart failure is reversible when the sleep apnea and airway obstruction are treated.
Calling your health care provider: Call your health care provider if your child has difficulty breathing through the nose. Call if the child has other symptoms discussed above.
Prevention: Treating throat infections early may prevent the adenoids from becoming enlarged from long-term infection and inflammation. Adenoidectomy prevents the complications of long-term airway obstruction.
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