Overview
Adenoids help fight infection in young children and usually shrink with age. When they are enlarged, they can cause breathing and ear problems.
Symptoms
- Breathing through the mouth
- Snoring and restless sleep
- Blocked or runny nose
- Repeated ear infections or glue ear
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
Causes and risk factors
They may enlarge because of infections or allergies, or for no clear reason.
Diagnosis
An ENT specialist examines the child, sometimes using a small camera or an X-ray.
Treatment
Mild cases may improve with nasal sprays. Surgery to remove the adenoids (adenoidectomy) is advised for significant breathing, sleep or ear problems.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if your child snores loudly, has pauses in breathing during sleep or repeated ear infections.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
