Enlarged or infected adenoids can affect your child’s breathing, sleep, and ear health. Learn the common signs that may indicate your child needs an adenoidectomy and when to consult an ENT specialist.
What Is an Adenoidectomy?
An adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids. It is often recommended when enlarged or infected adenoids cause recurring problems with breathing, sleep, or ear health that do not improve with medication.
Signs Your Child Might Need an Adenoidectomy
1. Chronic Nasal Congestion
Ongoing stuffy or blocked nose without a cold
Mouth breathing, especially during the day
2. Breathing Through the Mouth
Persistent mouth breathing can be a sign that the nasal passages are blocked by enlarged adenoids
3. Snoring or Sleep Apnea
Loud snoring at night
Pauses in breathing while sleeping (sleep apnea)
Restless sleep or frequent waking
4. Recurring Ear Infections
Frequent middle ear infections (otitis media)
Fluid buildup behind the eardrum (otitis media with effusion)
Hearing problems due to ear pressure or fluid
5. Frequent Sinus Infections
Recurrent or long-lasting sinus infections that don’t respond well to treatment