Enlarged adenoids can be a significant factor in children who suffer from frequent infections during childhood, snore at night, or sleep with their mouths open. Often dismissed as ‘a simple blocked nose’, this condition can affect both physical development and performance in school if not detected early.

Experts describe the function of the structure commonly known as the ‘adenoids’ as providing a defence against microbes entering the nose. However, the frequent enlargement of the adenoids seen in childhood should not be taken lightly. Dr. Sümbül Bayraktar Güzeldağ, an ENT specialist at Medline Adana Hospital, issues important warnings, emphasising that parents need to be aware of the symptoms of this condition.

It can affect performance in school

Enlarged adenoids can affect not only the respiratory tract but also a child’s cognitive and academic performance. In children who are unable to sleep sufficiently or well at night and experience frequent episodes of apnoea, a drop in blood oxygen levels can lead to attention deficits, learning difficulties and concentration problems. Children who appear tired, restless and unmotivated during the day may experience a noticeable decline in academic performance. Therefore, it is important for children who are frequently ill, snore, sleep with their mouth open, or receive feedback from teachers regarding inattention to be assessed by an ear, nose and throat specialist. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, both the child’s healthy development and performance in school can be significantly improved.

It is important to recognise the symptoms

The adenoids typically reach their largest size between the ages of 4 and 7 and tend to shrink as the child gets older. However, this tissue can enlarge due to passive smoking, allergic conditions and, particularly in pre-school-aged children, frequent recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. Enlarged adenoids typically present with symptoms such as snoring, mouth breathing, constantly walking around with an open mouth, nasal congestion and a runny nose. In addition, frequent middle ear infections, fluid build-up in the ear and associated hearing loss may occur. In some children, drooling and frequent tonsillitis may also accompany these symptoms.

It can affect facial and dental development

If adenoid enlargement remains untreated for a long time, it can negatively affect dental and palatal development. Problems such as a domed palate, misaligned teeth and protrusion of the upper front teeth may develop. A facial appearance commonly described as a ‘buck-toothed’ look may develop. Whilst these changes affect both the child’s aesthetic and functional development, they may also cause psychological issues in later life.

The ideal age for surgery is 3 years and older

Surgical treatment is considered if adenoid enlargement causes severe breathing difficulties, recurrent ear infections, hearing loss or sleep apnoea. Although surgery is medically possible from the age of 1, unless absolutely necessary, it is generally more appropriate to plan the procedure from the age of 3 onwards. Thanks to modern anaesthetic techniques, operations are now performed safely.

The operation is very short

Tonsil surgery, performed under general anaesthesia, takes approximately 15-20 minutes and is carried out via the mouth using an endoscope; no external incisions are made. Following the operation, the patient is usually kept under observation for one night. Temporary snoring due to swelling may occur in the first few days, but this subsides quickly. A diet of cold and soft foods is generally recommended for 3-5 days. The patient can usually return to their daily routine within a week.