Adenoid hypertrophy refers to the enlargement of the lymphatic tissue in the nasopharynx. In children, this condition is often a normal physiological process—lymphoid tissue is present in the nasopharynx from birth, gradually increases in size, and typically reaches its maximum around age 6 before naturally receding. It is considered problematic only when it begins to affect overall health or nearby organs.

The opening of the Eustachian tube in the nasopharynx is located close to the adenoids. When enlarged, adenoids can block the back of the nasal cavity and the Eustachian tube opening, leading to a range of ear, nose, and throat symptoms. These may include:

● Mouth breathing during sleep

● Snoring due to the tongue falling backward

● Muffled, nasal-sounding speech

● Long-term mouth breathing may also affect facial bone development, leading to a characteristic facial appearance known as "adenoid facies." This can include an elongated face, a high-arched palate, dental misalignment, and a consistently open-mouthed posture.

● Poor coordination between swallowing and breathing may allow secretions to irritate the respiratory tract, increasing susceptibility to bronchitis.

● Blockage of the Eustachian tube can result in non-suppurative otitis media (fluid in the middle ear), causing hearing loss and eardrum retraction.

​When to Seek Help:​​

If a child frequently has trouble hearing, seems to ignore speech, or constantly turns up the volume on the TV—especially when accompanied by snoring and mouth breathing—it is important to consult a doctor. Adenoid hypertrophy may be a possible cause.

​Treatment Options:​​

● Surgical removal of the adenoids (adenoidectomy) is a common treatment. This may be done alone or along with a tonsillectomy.

● For middle ear fluid caused by Eustachian tube blockage, medication may be prescribed. Severe cases might require procedures like eardrum puncture or tube insertion to drain the fluid.

● With timely and appropriate treatment, hearing can typically be restored to normal.

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