Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 5pm
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 5pm

Understanding Adenoid Infections

Adenoids - Greater Knoxville ENT - Knoxville, TN
Most cases of sore throat are usually attributed to inflamed and infected tonsils. But did you know that your tonsils aren’t the only glands in your mouth prone to infection? Your adenoids could get infected as well. What You Need to Know About Adenoids Your adenoids are masses of lymphatic tissue that helps your body fight infection.  Located behind your nose and roof of your mouth, your adenoids keep you healthy by trapping harmful microorganisms that pass through your nose and mouth. They also produce antibodies to help your body fight infection. Causes of Adenoid Infection Adenoids may play roles in fighting infection but they too could get infected. When they are overwhelmed with bacteria and viruses, they could get inflamed and swollen. This condition is called adenoiditis. Adenoiditis is more common in children as adenoids shrink progressively through childhood.  Children who have recurring infections in their throat, neck, or head are more susceptible to developing adenoiditis.  Symptoms of Adenoid Infection The most common symptom of adenoiditis is difficulty breathing through the nose. This happens as swollen adenoids could block the airways. Aside from difficulty in breathing, one may also experience the following:
  • Dry throat from mouth breathing
  • Sounding nasally when speaking
  • Snoring 
  • Ear pain
  • Stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose with greenish or discolored mucus
The symptoms could vary, depending on the cause of infection. Treating Adenoid Infection  If adenoiditis is caused by bacteria, it’s usually treated with antibiotics. However, if the patient gets frequent infections including ear or sinus infections and antibiotics don’t seem to help, surgery may be recommended. Adenoidectomy or surgical removal of adenoids is usually the procedure of choice. This is performed by a doctor specializing in ears, nose, and throat surgery. If your child constantly suffers from adenoiditis, come and see us.  At Greater Knoxville ENT, we have doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating new and recurring adenoid infections. You can request an appointment by calling us at (865) 244-4396.   References: https://www.webmd.com/children/adenoiditis https://www.healthline.com/health/adenoiditis#risk-factors