Adenoid is lymphoid tissue located in the nasopharyngeal area, at the back of the nose, and is an important part of the immune system. It is not present at birth; generally when children reach 2-3 years of age and with the start of daycare or kindergarten, it begins to develop in response to frequently occurring upper respiratory tract infections. This growth is a natural response of the immune system. However, in some children, the adenoid grows more than necessary, causing obstruction in the upper respiratory tract and negatively affecting the child’s quality of life.
What Are the Signs of Adenoid Enlargement?
Enlarged adenoids can affect the child’s life both during the day and at night. The most common signs are:
- Sleeping with mouth open and snoring
- Waking up breathless (sleep apnea)
- Frequently recurring middle ear infections or fluid accumulation in the ear
- Nasal congestion, chronic nasal discharge and cough
- Frequently occurring upper respiratory tract infections
- Persistent loss of appetite, restless sleep, fatigue and attention deficit
These signs become particularly prominent during nighttime sleep. In children with long-term adenoid obstruction, facial and jaw development can also be affected; in this case, a characteristic facial appearance defined as “adenoid face” may emerge.
Diagnosis is usually made with nasal endoscopy or endoscopic examination. In some cases, radiological evaluation may be necessary.
Adenoid enlargement in children is a common but not to be neglected condition. Early diagnosis and correct treatment protect both respiratory quality and hearing health. If your child has signs such as snoring, sleeping with mouth open, or frequent ear infections, consulting an ENT specialist will be the right step.
Frequently Asked Questions
1-) Does every child have adenoids?
Adenoids are present in every child but do not always cause problems. Adenoid size and the child’s immune response vary from person to person.
2-) Do adenoids shrink over time?
Yes. Adenoids usually begin to shrink towards puberty and almost completely disappear in adult years. However, if they affect breathing or hearing during childhood, they need to be treated.
3-) When is adenoid surgery necessary?
If the child has sleeping with mouth open, severe snoring, sleep apnea, frequent middle ear infection, or fluid accumulation in the ear, surgical treatment (adenoidectomy) is recommended. Surgery may also be considered for children whose complaints continue despite medication.
4-) Does immunity weaken if adenoids are removed?
No. Although adenoids are part of the immune system, their removal does not negatively affect immune functions. Because there are other lymphoid tissues in the body that undertake similar duties.
5-) Does adenoid enlargement cause ear-related problems?
Yes. Since adenoids are located in an area close to the opening of the Eustachian tube, they can cause obstruction. This can lead to fluid accumulation in the ear, hearing loss, and frequent middle ear infections.
