When Should Adenoids Be Removed In Adults

The Need For Adenoid Removal In Adults

Should adults worry about adenoids? With 90% of surgeries done on patients under age 15, many people may say no. Yet, some adults experience ailments related to an adenoid infection. Adenoids are a mass of tissue located at the back of the throat. As part of the lymphatic system, adenoids combat germs coming through the nose, as tonsils do for the mouth. The glands are prone to infection and sometimes require removal. When should adults get surgery?

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When the ear hurts

Inflamed adenoids block air coming through the nose. The blockage can then lead to an infection of the eustachian tube and middle ear. Middle ear infections cause serious pain and fullness of the ear. The condition is frequent in children but some adults experience ear infections too. If antibiotics do not work, an ENT may suggest an adenoidectomy.

When breathing becomes difficult

Inflamed adenoids can become as large as a ping pong ball. In adults, the swelling goes down naturally. But in some cases, swelling remains. The swollen adenoid restricts breathing, causing stuffy noses and nasally speech. If breathing is no longer comfortable after medical treatment, adenoid removal is the next step.

Poor sleep quality

Infected adenoids sometimes cause sleep apnea. With the throat muscles relaxed during sleep, inflamed adenoids restrict oxygen use. Sleep apnea could be the catalyst for serious ailments like hypertension and heart disease.

When doctors suspect a tumor

In very rare cases, adenoids form a lump that could be cancerous. If a lump is in the adenoids, doctors may perform an adenoidectomy. The medical lab can then test the mass for lymphoma or other diseases.

Tonsil issues

If a person is having constant tonsil infections, this can point to infected adenoids. If the tonsils and adenoids are swollen together, breathing becomes twice as difficult. Doctors sometimes recommend a procedure to get a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy at the same time.

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Although infected adenoids in adults are rare, infections aren’t impossible. If a person is affected by symptoms like stuffy nose, sore throat, snoring, or problems swallowing, schedule an appointment with a physician. A simple outpatient procedure can save a person pain, discomfort, and improve long-term health.