Adenoids
Adenoids are lymphatic tissue located at the back of the nasal cavity in the upper respiratory tract and form part of the immune system. This tissue plays an important role in fighting infections, especially during childhood. However, in some cases, the adenoids may become inflamed and cause problems. This condition is called adenoiditis or adenoid hypertrophy.
Adenoiditis – inflammation of the adenoids
Adenoids can sometimes become inflamed due to viruses and bacteria. This may result in various symptoms caused by swelling and infection in the nasal and pharyngeal areas.
Symptoms:
- Anosmia – complete loss of the sense of smell. This occurs as a result of damage to the nose or the parts of the brain that control the sense of smell.
- Hyposmia – a reduced sense of smell, meaning that smells that were previously normal are now perceived more weakly.
- Cacosmia – perception of distorted or unpleasant smells. Sometimes the patient continues to smell odors that are not actually present in the surroundings.
Adenoid hypertrophy:
It is more common in children and, over time, enlarged adenoids can cause nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, sleep disturbances, and sometimes hearing loss.
Symptoms:
- Chronic nasal obstruction
- Persistent mouth breathing
- Noisy or labored breathing during sleep
- Dry mouth or throat discomfort
- Hearing problems (especially in children)
Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Physical examination and nasal endoscopy may be used.
- The size of the adenoids may be determined by X-ray or ultrasound examination.
Treatment approaches:
- Medical treatment: antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation of the adenoids.
- Surgical intervention: when enlarged adenoids cause breathing and hearing problems, an adenoidectomy (removal of the adenoids) may be required.
Adenoid enlargement and inflammation can lead to serious health problems in children, particularly those related to breathing and hearing. Delayed intervention may cause long-term effects. If any of these symptoms are observed, it is important to consult a specialist.