Adenoids and the Fight Against Infections
Typically, when experiencing a stuffy, runny nose or painful ear infection this is from a sinus infection or the common cold. However, sometimes these symptoms have more to do with swollen glands than sinuses. These glands or adenoids can become swollen or even infected, especially in children. If the glands cause recurring problems, a physician may recommend removal.
Adenoid location
Adenoids are located in the roof of the mouth, behind the soft palate where the nose connects to the throat. Adenoids are part of the immune system, producing antibodies to help the body overpower infections. Typically, catching germs in the nose to prevent spreading sickness to the rest of the body. However, through the process of battling bacteria, these glands can become swollen and uncomfortable.
How adenoids ambush the ear tubes
Due to the swelling of adenoids, the glands enlarge. This can lead to blockage in the area called the Eustachian Tube (ET). The ET connects to a part of the ear housing small bones, which are used to help control ear pressure and conduct sound. This structure is also the path that viruses and bacteria can enter and exit the ear.
When enlarged adenoids cause blockage in the ET, fluid builds up in the ear. That build up can easily lead to repeated ear infections or even temporary loss of hearing. Children with frequent ear infections may be recommended an adenoidectomy. Experts indicate that removing adenoids is an effective treatment for recurring ear infections that do not respond to antibiotics.
When to Think About Removing Adenoids
Adenoids tend to be largest during early childhood, and through adolescence, the glands start shrinking. The adenoids become very small during the teenage years and can disappear entirely by adulthood. As a result, adenoid removal mostly occurs in young children.
How to examine adenoids
Swollen adenoids cannot be seen by looking directly into the mouth. A healthcare provider will use a specifically designed mirror or by inserting an endoscope to do an examination. This is a flexible tube with a light and camera placed through the nose. Other tests to determine the right course of treatment may include an x-ray of the throat or neck or a sleep study if sleep apnea is suspected.
Adult adenoid removal
There are instances where adults do need adenoid removal. If a tumor is discovered and there’s a possibility of cancer, an otolaryngologist will perform this minimally invasive surgery. An otolaryngologist is an ear, nose and throat doctor, commonly shortened to ENT. While removal may not be the most common first step in treating ear infections, physicians do have the option of removing adenoids to address recurring issues.
Recent Posts
What Will Rehab Be Like After A Cervical Disc Replacement?
Cervical disc replacements require a short but extensive recovery. Patients should expect exercises and rest during the process.
Spinal Cord Neurostimulator: How Long Does It Take For A Trial To Work?
A neurostimulator disrupts pain signals responsible for spinal nerve pain. Some patients are surprised at the quick turnaround time.
Is An SI Joint Injection The Same As A Nerve Block? Sacroiliac Pain
Sacroiliac pain is lower back pain that stems from the SI joint. A doctor may suggest a joint injection, but are these treatments the same?
How A Diet & Exercise Program Can Help Prepare For Cervical Disc Replacement
A cervical disc replacement can relieve chronic neck, shoulder, and arm pain. Can a diet and exercise regimen improve the surgery’s outcome?
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
