Adenoids, along with the tonsils are one of the first line of defense against inhaled and/or swallowed bacteria and viruses.
This role only takes place in the first few years of your child’s development, till the kid’s body can fight infection without the adenoids’ help. The adenoids in kids shrinks in size year after year till it almost disappears. They rarely grow back in size.
Symptoms of enlarged adenoids in kids
Adenoids could swell in response to many triggers. One of the most important triggers are bacterial and viral infections, and also allergies.
When adenoids in kids are enlarged, the kid may suffer any of the following symptoms
Difficult breathing
Breathing from the mouth
Dry lips
Bad odor of the kid’s breath
Snoring
Running nose
Restless sleep
Sleep apnea
Stuffed nose
Complications of enlarged adenoids in kids
One of the most common complications of enlarged adenoids in kids is middle ear infections. This causes vertigo, dizziness and much more.
Diagnosis of enlarged adenoids in kids
A basic physical examination by the pediatrician of the kid’s nose and throat, is sufficient to diagnose enlarged adenoids in kids.
But sometimes the doctor may ask for an X-ray or endoscopic examination to confirm diagnosis and any possible complication.
Treatment of enlarged adenoids in kids
Usually, enlarged adenoids in kids requires no treatment. Only bedrest and lots of fluids.
If symptoms continue, the doctor may recommend a nasal spray that contains a medication that can reduce swelling and/or antibiotics if it is a diagnosed bacterial infection.
But in severe cases, adenoidectomy is required. It is a minor procedure where the doctor removes the enlarged adenoids.
