Children with enlarged adenoids may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Breathing difficulties: Mouth breathing, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing through the nose
- Sleep disturbances: Snoring, sleep apnea, and restless sleep
- Ear problems: Frequent ear infections, hearing loss, and earaches
- Sinusitis: Persistent nasal drainage, congestion, and facial pain
- Throat symptoms: Sore throat, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing
- Nasal voice quality: A nasal or “stuffy” tone to the voice
- Frequent infections: Recurring ear, throat, and sinus infections
In some cases, children with enlarged adenoids may also experience:
- Sleep study: A sleep study may be recommended to evaluate sleep apnea and breathing difficulties during sleep
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat underlying infections
- Nasal steroid sprays: Medication to reduce swelling and congestion
- Surgery: Adenoidectomy (removal of the adenoids) may be necessary for severe or persistent symptoms
It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if your child exhibits any of these symptoms, as they can help diagnose and treat enlarged adenoids effectively.