Swollen or infected adenoids can lead to breathing difficulties and sleeping issues in children. If these problems persist, your child’s doctor may recommend removing their adenoids in a procedure called an adenoidectomy. Continue reading to learn more about what your adenoids are why they may require removal.
Understanding Adenoids
The glands at the roof of your mouth behind your noise are known as the adenoids. They are an important part of your immune system, helping to prevent germs from entering the body.
As part of your body’s first line of defense, your adenoids can easily become infected. Swollen and enlarged adenoids can be painful and make it hard to breath or get a good night’s sleep.
Long-term inflammation can also lead to a blockage of the Eustachian tubes, which connect the ear to the back of the throat. This can lead to a buildup of fluid within the middle ear, which can cause ear infections and temporary hearing loss.
As you age, your adenoids decrease in size. While people of all ages can suffer from swollen adenoids, this condition is far more common in children.
Treating Enlarged Adenoids
Common symptoms of enlarged adenoids include:
- Noisy breathing.
- Nasal-sounding voice.
- Dry mouth.
- Stuffy or runny nose.
- Mouth breathing.
- Frequency ear infections.
- Snoring.
- Poor sleep.
Your child’s ear, nose and throat doctor will first try treating their enlarged adenoids with medication. If that does not work and symptoms remain, they may suggest surgery. The long-term risks of this surgery make this a serious medical decision you should take time to consider.
Adenoid Removal
An adenoidectomy is a common procedure; approximately 130,000 are performed each year in the United States. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. With the help of a lighted instrument, the surgeon will access the adenoids through the back of the throat; this means no external incisions are needed.
The procedure of surgically removing the adenoids takes less than an hour, and most children are able to go home the same day. Children who are very young or who have other conditions that make them high-risk will require an overnight stay for observation.
The recovery process following the adenoid removal surgery is quick. Plenty or rest, fluids and a trip to sweetFrog for a frozen treat can help treat the mild pain or discomfort in the throat, nose and ears immediately following the surgery. Most people are completely recovered one to two weeks following the procedure.
If your child is showing signs of enlarged adenoids, now is the time to consult an ear, nose and throat doctor. Contact Blue Ridge ENT today to schedule an appointment.