Adenoids are pads of
tissue, resembling tonsil tissue, that form a raised surface at the back of the
nasal passage. They trap and destroy bacteria that enter the body through the
nose, but are not essential for the body's defense against bacteria. Adenoids
also help the body to build up resistance (immunity) to future infections.
Adenoid problems
In young children the
adenoids are proportionally larger than at any other age. This sometimes causes
the nasal passage to become partially blocked, which may result in snoring,
breathing through the mouth (because breathing through the nose is difficult),
or the buildup of mucus (catarrh or postnasal drip) in the nasal passage. This
mucus build-up could cause a runny nose during the day or a cough when the
child lies down. The swelling or mucus may also block the tubes that lead from
the nasal passage to the middle ears (the eustachian tubes), causing hearing
loss. Ear infection may follow.
Treatment
Antihistamine tablets
and nasal drops can reduce congestion, but nasal drops should not be used for
more than four days at a time. They may cause irritation and excessive dryness
in the nose and make the condition worse.
If deafness or
infection in the middle ear persists after antibiotic therapy, a physician may
recommend surgical removal of the adenoids (adenoid-ectomy). The operation is
relatively simple.
Adenoids grow again
after removal, but seldom to the original size.
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