Adenoids are a patch of lymphoid tissue that sits high up behind the nose, where the nasal passages meet the throat. They are part of the body's immune tissue and are most active in early childhood.
In many children the adenoids enlarge for a period and then gradually reduce with age. In some children, however, enlargement persists or is accompanied by other factors that make nasal breathing difficult.
Why enlargement can matter
When the space behind the nose is reduced, a child may find it easier to breathe through the mouth. Over time, habitual mouth breathing may be associated with snoring, disturbed sleep, and changes in oral habits.
- · Persistent nasal blockage
- · Snoring or noisy breathing at night
- · Habitual open-mouth posture during the day
- · Recurrent nasal or ear-related symptoms
What this does not mean
Adenoids are not the explanation for every childhood symptom. Nasal allergy, infections, structural factors and other conditions may contribute. An individualised clinical evaluation is the only reliable way to understand what is happening for a particular child.
Medical disclaimer
This website provides general health education. It is not a substitute for individual medical evaluation, diagnosis or treatment.