The adenoid is a single piece of tissue located at the back above the roof of the mouth and is one of the germ processing centers of the child’s immune system. However, the adenoids can easily get infected and swollen due to persistent exposure to external viruses and bacteria. Adenoidectomy is a common surgical procedure for the removal of this gland. Here’s a brief overview of the known symptoms, reasons for surgery, and the procedure.
The function of adenoids
The adenoid’s main function is to catch and filter germs and contaminants that enter through the nose during regular breathing. Adenoids are a part of the immune system known to fight off bacteria and viruses that cause infections. However, in this process, the glands can easily get infected and become swollen. This swelling usually affects smaller children as the irregular shape and size of the glands may interfere with breathing and sleeping.
To correct this problem, surgeons perform an adenoidectomy (adenoid removal) to cut out the enlarged gland. Doctors may also suggest removing the adenoids during a regular tonsillectomy (tonsils removal). However, this will vary from case to case.
Known symptoms
Swollen adenoids exhibit short-term and long-term discomforts. They are as follows:
- Breathing from the mouth
The swelling directly affects nasal breathing, and as a result, children may develop the habit of breathing excessively through the mouth. - Nasal discomforts
Even if the child does not have an infection, he or she may constantly struggle with a runny or stuffy nose. - Excessive snoring
Excessive snoring and heavy breathing result in a hoarse nasal-sounding voice, which could indicate a severe adenoid swelling problem. - Dry mouth and cracked lips
This may not be a common symptom, but some kids experience dry mouth and cracked lips. - Sleep is affected
Swollen adenoids affect breathing, which could result in disrupted sleeping habits. Lack of sleep increases the risk of several health complications in the long run.
Possible reasons for an adenoidectomy
Swollen glands can result in the following complications and affect the child’s day-to-day activities.
- A persistent and recurring ear infection that cannot be cured with antibiotics
- Excess buildup of fluid in the ear canal that results in aches and pains
- Experiencing uncontrolled earaches due to the swelling
- Sleep is affected during the night, and as a result, the child may experience daytime sleepiness
- Poor and impaired cognitive development due to inconsistent sleeping patterns
- An increased risk of snoring and possible childhood sleep apnea due to the swelling
Preparing for surgery
Adenoidectomy is a common procedure. But since it is performed on younger children, doctors must assess if the child is physically fit for the surgery. Firstly, a blood test is requested to see if their white and red blood cells can properly clot during the procedure. The mouth and throat are organs that bleed out easily. Hence blood tests are done to proactively confirm there will be no major risk of excessive bleeding during the adenoid removal. Certain prescriptions must also be stopped a week prior to the surgery to better prepare the body for the procedure.
Adenoidectomy procedure
This operation is performed under general anesthesia. And more importantly, the entire procedure can be done without any external incisions. Doctors can easily access the adenoids from the mouth using visual aids, and the surgeon will cut out the gland. In cases where both the tonsils and adenoids get infected, surgeons may also remove the tonsils to ensure no further complications arise in the near future.
Post surgery, kids must drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and prevent the throat from going dry. Doctors also recommend switching to soft foods and soothing beverages that help alleviate the pain. Ice cream is a popular recommendation that children enjoy during the first few weeks of recovery.
Low possible risk of post-procedure discomforts
Adenoidectomy is a safe procedure and takes no more than an hour. Patients are usually discharged the same day. Doctors also advise on specific guidelines and safety protocols (food and lifestyle) during the first few days of recovery. This helps prevent any infection or flare up. However, in some rare cases, children could develop the following discomforts after the procedure.
- Problems with swallowing
- Experiencing a sore throat
- Bad breath, nausea, & vomiting
- Fever or ear pain
It is advisable to immediately contact the doctor if the bleeding resumes as it could be a sign of an infection.
The long-term outlook of getting an adenoidectomy is positive, as children are less likely to suffer from severe throat or ear infections. They can also breathe easily after the removal of the swollen glands.
