Enlarged Tonsils and Adenoids in Children
Overview
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Tonsils and adenoids are small glands located at the back of the throat and behind the nose that help fight infections. In some children, these tissues become enlarged, leading to breathing difficulties, frequent throat infections, or snoring.
Tonsils and adenoids are small glands located at the back of the throat and behind the nose that help fight infections. In some children, these tissues become enlarged, leading to breathing difficulties, frequent throat infections, or snoring.
Causes
- Repeated throat or ear infections
- Allergies or chronic sinus problems
- Natural variation in size (some children are born with larger tonsils/adenoids)
- Common Symptoms
- Loud snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
- Mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Recurrent sore throats or ear infections
- Daytime tiredness due to poor sleep quality
Diagnosis & Treatment
A detailed physical examination is performed by a pediatric ENT expert, and some tests such as culture test may also be prescribed to know the cause of tonsillitis.
Treatments may include:
- Medications for infections or allergies
- Monitoring if symptoms are mild
- Surgical removal (tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy) in severe cases
Prevention & When to Seek Help
Parents should consult a doctor if the child snores regularly, has frequent infections, or shows signs of sleep apnea (pauses in breathing during sleep). Early treatment helps children breathe better, sleep well, and stay healthy.