Adenoids

Adenoids are a patch of tissue high up in the throat, just behind the nose. They are part of the lymphatic system, which helps fight infection and keep body fluids in balance. Adenoids usually start to shrink after about age 5 and are almost gone by the teenage years.

Symptoms

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Mouth breathing
• Dry mouth
• Bad breath
• Cracked lips
• Runny nose
• Loud breathing
• Snoring
• Restless sleep
• Sleep apnea
• Ear infections

Causes

Enlarged adenoids can be present at birth or become swollen when fighting an infection. They may stay enlarged even after the infection is gone.

Diagnosis

To diagnose enlarged adenoids, a health care provider will ask about medical history and symptoms, check the ears, throat, and mouth, and feel the neck. Since adenoids are high up, the provider may use a special mirror, a flexible tube with a light (endoscope), or an x-ray to see them.

Treatment

If symptoms are not too bad, no treatment may be needed. If treatment is needed, nasal spray to reduce swelling or antibiotics for bacterial infection may be used.

Medications

• Nasal spray to reduce swelling
• Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present

When to see a doctor

You should see a doctor if your child has symptoms of enlarged adenoids, such as trouble breathing through the nose, snoring, restless sleep, or frequent ear infections.