Adenoids can be described as lumpy clusters of tissue that are located at the back of the nasal cavity, just above the roof of the mouth. These clusters are a lot like your tonsils, as they keep you from getting sick by trapping any harmful microorganisms that you swallow or breathe in. However, unlike your tonsils, which can be seen at the back of your throat, adenoids are not easily visible even if you open your mouth really wide. When you go in for a physical checkup, your doctor will need to use a special telescope to get a look at your adenoids. A head x-ray can also give your doctor an idea about the size of these glands. Adenoids are very important in babies, toddlers and little kids, as they perform the essential function of reducing infections. These glands contain cells that prepare antibodies, which fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. As you grow older, these glands lose their importance, because your body develops other ways of combating infectious germs. When a person reaches the age of 5, the adenoids begin shrinking. These glands practically disappear by the time you reach your teens. However, there are a few problems that could lead to enlarged adenoids in kids.
The presence of bacteria or viruses is the main cause of swollen adenoids in children. Sometimes, when germs enter a child’s body they get trapped by this gland. As the adenoid tries to fight off the infection, the tissues may swell up temporarily. Some of the other factors that could also lead to swollen adenoids include:
There are several uncomfortable signs and symptoms that a child may experience when these glands swell up. Some of the symptoms of swollen adenoids in children include:
To avoid these symptoms, it is best to get a swollen adenoid checked and treated by a doctor. If the invasion of the bacteria is severe, the child may suffer from adenoid inflammation or infection, which needs to be treated without any delay.
Very often the swelling goes away on its own, without any treatment. However, if the swelling is severe and causes problems, the child may need to take antibiotics. In case the swelling is not controlled by medication, the doctor may suggest an adenoidectomy, a surgical procedure for the removal of the adenoid glands. The symptoms of an enlarged adenoid should disappear immediately after the surgery.
In case the problem is not too severe, you could use a simple home remedy to alleviate it. Given below are some home remedies for adenoids in children:
There are several foods that aggravate the symptoms of adenoiditis and therefore should be avoided. Moreover, before using any of the home remedies for adenoids, it is important to check with a doctor.
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