Adenoids play an important role in a child’s immune system, helping to fight infections. However, in some children, adenoids become enlarged, leading to breathing difficulties, ear problems, and sleep disturbances. Understanding the symptoms and causes of enlarged adenoids can help parents recognise when medical attention is needed.
What are adenoids?
Adenoids are small glands located at the back of the nose, near the throat. They form part of the immune system, helping to trap germs and prevent infections. While they are useful in childhood, adenoids tend to shrink naturally as a child grows older.
For some children, however, adenoids can become excessively large, leading to persistent symptoms that may require medical evaluation and, in some cases, removal.
What causes enlarged adenoids?
Adenoids can become enlarged for several reasons, including:
- Frequent infections – Recurring bacterial or viral infections can cause inflammation and swelling of the adenoids.
- Allergies – Allergic reactions may lead to chronic inflammation, contributing to persistent enlargement.
- Genetics – Some children naturally have larger adenoids, which may cause symptoms even without infections.
Symptoms of enlarged adenoids
Enlarged adenoids can cause a range of symptoms that may affect a child’s breathing, sleep, and ear health.
Blocked or stuffy nose
Children with enlarged adenoids often struggle to breathe through their noses, leading to a constant blocked or stuffy nose. This may make them breathe through their mouth instead, especially at night.
Snoring and sleep apnoea
Large adenoids can partially block the airway, causing snoring and, in some cases, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Sleep apnoea occurs when a child momentarily stops breathing during sleep, which can lead to poor sleep quality, restlessness, poor school performance and daytime fatigue.
Frequent ear infections and glue ear
Repeated adenoid infections can spread to the middle ear, affecting the function of the Eustachian tube—the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This blockage can result in glue ear, a condition where fluid builds up in the middle ear, leading to hearing problems and frequent infections.
Mouth breathing and speech issues
Since breathing through the nose becomes difficult, children with enlarged adenoids may breathe through their mouths instead. Over time, this can contribute to dry mouth, bad breath, and even changes in speech patterns.
Persistent sore throat or cough
Due to postnasal drip and irritation, children with enlarged adenoids may experience a chronic sore throat or persistent cough, particularly at night.
When is adenoid removal needed?
If enlarged adenoids cause significant breathing difficulties, frequent infections, or sleep disturbances, an adenoidectomy (surgical removal of the adenoids) may be recommended. This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, and most children go home the same day. The risk of complications, such as bleeding, is low (less than 2% in procedures performed by Mr Olarinde).
Enlarged adenoids can cause a variety of symptoms that impact breathing, sleep, and ear health in children. If your child frequently experiences these issues, consulting a specialist is the best way to determine the most suitable treatment. Mr Wale Olarinde, an expert ENT specialist, can assess your child’s symptoms and provide tailored advice on whether adenoid removal is necessary for improved health and well-being.