Adenoid Hypertrophy (Tonsils)
What are adenoids?
Adenoid glands, also known as crustaceans, are a mass of lymphoid tissue similar to tonsils that is located at the bottom of the nose in the nasopharyngeal region. They are present from birth and normally decrease in size after 7-8 years of age.
What are they used for?
The adenoids, along with the tonsils, form a virtual ring and act as a filter for the inhaled air. So, when they function properly and are not enlarged, they serve as a first line of defense against viruses and bacteria entering the body through breathing.
When do they cause problems?
Because of their location, their size plays an important role in comfortable and easy nasal breathing. When the alveoli are large in size (hypertrophy) or when they become inflamed (adenoiditis) so that they swell reactively, then there is difficulty in nasal breathing, snoring, nasal speech and abundant nasal discharge, since they cannot easily descend to the oropharynx and be swallowed.
Fluid in the ear
The hypertrophy of the adenoid glands can be the main cause of fluid collecting in the ear and the development of hearing loss, also known as otitis media. Large crustaceans can block the orifices of the eustachian tubes, two ducts that regulate ear ventilation and equalization of pressures. This leads to a build-up of fluid behind the eardrum, resulting in temporary hearing loss and a feeling of fullness and 'stuffiness' of the ears.
What should I do?
Persistent infections, ear infections, abundant snot and stuffy nose especially in children are symptoms that need to be checked. A full ENT examination and endoscopic examination if needed will provide the solution.
Do the meatballs have to be removed?
When there is inflammation of the adenoids, antibiotic treatment may be required and washes with saline or hypertonic solution (higher salt content) are particularly useful. After treatment, the adenoids may return to their normal size or slight swelling may remain. In case there are symptoms of snoring and heavy breathing and persistent presence of fluid in the ear even if you are not going through a cold period then it is very likely to be due to adenoid hypertrophy and may require surgical removal (adenotomy).