What are adenoids in kids?

Adenoids are a group of tissue that are located between the end of the inside of the nose and the top of the throat. Don’t get confused, they are not the tonsils. The tonsils are always visible at the back of the throat. But adenoids are rarely visible even in a routine nasal exam.

Why are adenoids in kids important?

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.  

Why excise enlarged adenoids in kids:

If your kid suffers from any of the following symptoms, then adenoidectomy is recommended:

• Suffering from repeated episodes of adenoid enlargement in less than year with secondary middle ear infection.
• Recurrent sinusitis.
• Suffers airway obstruction.
• Suffers from sleep apnea
• If the kid is on antibiotics but still not improving.

After excising an enlarged adenoid in kids:

Adenoidectomy is a simple surgical procedure where the doctor removes the enlarged adenoids in less than 30 minutes. After the procedure, the kid may suffer from discomfort, mild pain, runny nose and bad breath for a few days. Best remedy is to let the kid rest, keep him/her hydrated with water, natural organic juices and broth. This ensures a speedy recovery.  

Magrabi's advice:

Adenoids in kids are essential. On the other hand, enlarged adenoids may mean there is a problem in your kid's immunity. Always visit a doctor to make sure it is a simple viral infection and nothing more.