Enlarged Adenoids
The adenoids are a pad of tissue at the back of the nose, above the roof of the mouth, that helps fight infection in early childhood. In many young children they become enlarged and block the back of the nose. They usually shrink by the teenage years. While they are large they can cause mouth breathing, snoring, disturbed sleep and repeated ear problems, and in some children they affect growth, behaviour and learning.
Find a ENT SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Breathing through the mouth, especially at night
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing or gasping during sleep
- A constantly blocked or runny nose
- A nasal voice
- Repeated ear infections or glue ear
- Daytime tiredness, poor concentration or restlessness
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your child snores most nights, breathes through the mouth all the time, or has repeated ear infections or hearing problems. See an ENT surgeon promptly if your child stops breathing or gasps during sleep, is not growing well, or is struggling at school because of tiredness. Go to an emergency department if your child has difficulty breathing while awake.
Treatment options
- Watchful waiting, as adenoids often shrink with age
- Steroid nasal sprays for several weeks
- Treatment of allergy if present
- X-ray or nasal endoscopy to assess the size
- Adenoidectomy, often combined with tonsillectomy or grommets
What it costs on Mezo
Published cash prices for the operations used to treat this condition. Your own quote follows an examination.
Common Questions
Will my child outgrow enlarged adenoids?
Often, yes. Adenoids usually shrink from around age seven and are small by the teenage years. Surgery is considered when the symptoms, especially sleep apnoea or hearing problems, are significant now.
Is snoring in children normal?
Occasional snoring with a cold is common. Regular loud snoring, especially with pauses or gasps, is not normal and can affect behaviour, learning and growth. It deserves an assessment.
Is adenoid surgery safe?
Adenoidectomy is a short, common operation, usually done as a day case or with one night in hospital. As with any operation there is a small risk of bleeding, which your surgeon will discuss.
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