Generally, many adults may feel that “snoring” is a normal issue that can occur when the body feels very tired or exhausted. However, for snoring in children, it may not be as simple as parents think because it could be caused by an abnormality of the “adenoid gland.” If neglected, assuming it is just because the child is tired from playing, it may result in delayed development and become a problem later on. Therefore, understanding the condition of enlarged adenoids in children is something that parents should not overlook.
What is the adenoid gland and how important is it for children?
“Adenoid” is a type of lymph gland similar to the tonsils, located on the mucous membrane behind the nasal cavity. It plays an important role during childhood from ages 2-12 years by acting like a “warning signal” indicating that the body has an infection. This is because it is a site for white blood cells. When an infection occurs in the body, the adenoid gland enlarges and becomes inflamed, causing abnormal symptoms that signal something is wrong with the body and that medical consultation is needed for treatment. The adenoid gland’s role decreases and it no longer contributes to disease protection once a person reaches adulthood.
Observe children carefully; if they show these signs, there is a chance of enlarged adenoids
To observe whether a child has enlarged adenoids, parents can look for two main symptoms: “nasal congestion” and “snoring while breathing”, or they may have a runny nose similar to allergy symptoms. Most cases present with snoring, which requires medical consultation to diagnose whether the cause is a nasal abnormality, enlarged adenoids, or tonsils. Usually, enlarged adenoids occur together with tonsillitis. Other symptoms that may be observed include muffled hearing or ear infections because the adenoid gland is located behind the nasal mucosa near the opening of the middle ear (Eustachian Tube). If the adenoid gland enlarges, it can block this opening, preventing fluid in the middle ear from draining, leading to ear infections and possibly temporary hearing loss if untreated.
How serious is it if children have enlarged adenoids?
Since the main symptom of children with enlarged adenoids is “snoring,” if left untreated for a long time, it can affect the child’s development due to lack of oxygen during sleep. This can lead to poor academic performance and may result in attention deficit disorders. It may also affect facial structure because the child has to breathe through the mouth constantly while sleeping. Therefore, if you notice your child snoring, do not ignore it and promptly take them to see a doctor to find the cause and receive treatment as soon as possible.
How is enlarged adenoid disease diagnosed in children?
To diagnose enlarged adenoids in children, after taking a medical history and asking about symptoms, the doctor will perform an X-ray or use an endoscope to examine the adenoid gland for abnormalities by inspecting the area behind the nasal cavity. The X-ray is done in a special sitting position that allows clear imaging of the specific area.
For endoscopy, the doctor uses a flexible instrument called a “Flexible Fiberoptic Rhino-Scope,” which is suitable for examining children because it does not frighten them or cause pain during movement. Another advantage of this scope is that it can examine down to the larynx, allowing for a more comprehensive diagnosis. However, if the child is still scared and unwilling to undergo endoscopy, X-rays remain a good alternative that provides sufficiently accurate diagnostic results for treatment planning.
How to treat enlarged adenoids in children
Treatment for enlarged adenoids in children can be done through surgery, with the following steps and details:
- The doctor administers general anesthesia and positions the patient lying on their back, ready for surgery.
- Injection and local application of hemostatic medication to the patient.
- Surgical removal of the enlarged adenoid gland through the mouth using surgical instruments, without any external incisions.
- Control bleeding and tidy up the surgical wound.
Generally, the surgery takes about half an hour to one hour. It is performed without external wounds, and after surgery, the patient must stay overnight for observation to monitor for bleeding complications. In some cases, tissue samples may be taken for further infection testing.
How to care for your child after adenoid surgery
After surgery, parents should provide soft foods and avoid hot, fried, or irritating foods that may cause throat irritation and coughing, which could lead to bleeding. This dietary restriction lasts about 7 days, after which the wound will heal normally. Seven days after surgery, the doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to check the healing progress and ensure full recovery. Parents should bring their child to the appointment and strictly follow the doctor’s instructions to achieve the best treatment outcome.
Enlarged adenoid disease in children is common and often presents with symptoms of nasal congestion and runny nose similar to allergies, along with snoring. Snoring is an important warning sign. Therefore, parents should carefully observe their children. If frequent snoring is noticed, it should not be ignored or taken lightly. Prompt medical examination is necessary to find the cause and treat it quickly because delaying treatment can affect the child’s development.
“If you notice your child snoring, don’t wait
Take them to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment
to prevent delayed development
that affects your child’s future”
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Dr. Naparat Jirawatnapolin
Specialist Surgeon in Ear, Nose, and Throat
and Facial Plastic Surgery
Ear, Nose, and Throat Center
Phyathai 3 Hospital, 4th Floor
Tel. 02-467-1111 ext. 4416 – 4417
