Are Your Adenoids Annoyed?
- Posted on: Apr 15 2018
What are the Adenoids?
Right above your tonsils is small areas of tissue that are not visible without specialized instruments. These are your adenoids. The tonsils and adenoids are both parts of your immune system and produce white blood cells when you get an infection. Despite this role in protecting your body, adenoids are susceptible to developing problems.
What Causes Adenoid Symptoms?
The adenoids typically disappear in childhood when the body’s immune system is strong enough to fend off infections without the glands. Adenoid symptoms are most common in children, but adults may have problems if the glands do not shrink when a patient is young. Signs for adenoid problems are similar in adults and children and may include:
- Clogged ears and fluid in the ears
- Swollen glands
- Troubled breathing
- Sleep apnea, snoring and other difficulties while sleeping
- Sore throats and trouble swallowing
- Nasal congestion
When Should I See a Specialist About My Adenoid Symptoms?
Many of the symptoms of enlarged adenoids are similar to allergies and other problems. The specialists at ENT & Allergy Centers of Texas can help regardless of what causes your symptoms.
What Treatments are Available for Adenoid Conditions?
Conservative treatments for irritated adenoids may include medications to control the inflammation, such as steroid nasal sprays and antibiotics. Recommendations for children typically involve managing less severe cases in the hopes that the symptoms will resolve once the adenoids shrink. In more severe cases, surgery is recommended to remove the glands, and your specialist may recommend removing the tonsils as well. The adenoids and tonsils are not critical to immune function, so removing them does not increase the risk of infections and may reduce the risk.
Are Your Adenoids Annoyed? Contact ENT & Allergy Centers of Texas.
To learn more about adenoid treatments, hearing tests, allergy treatments and our other services, contact ENT & Allergy Centers of Texas to schedule an appointment. Our offices are conveniently located in McKinney, Plano and Allen, Texas, and you can contact us directly at (972) 984-1050.
Posted in: Tonsils & Adenoids