Adenoiditis is inflammation of the adenoids, a group of tissues located above the mouth and behind the nose. Normally, along with the tonsils, they trap germs passing through the nose or mouth by producing antibodies to help the body fight infection.
The examination is performed with a flashlight, as the adenoids are very difficult to see. Inflammation of the adenoids is usually caused by infection and can lead to difficulty breathing and recurrent respiratory infections. Although adenoiditis can occur in adults, it is more common in children.
Causes of Adenoiditis
The cause of adenoiditis is a bacterial or viral infection. Viruses that cause adenoiditis include adenovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and rhinovirus. The most common bacterial cause of adenoiditis is streptococcal infection.
Some preschoolers and adolescents have naturally large adenoids. However, adenoids can become enlarged due to infection with viruses or bacteria that cause strep throat. Exposure to infections or bacteria can occur in daycare or school.
Additionally, allergies, irritation, and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) can also cause adenoiditis. When enlarged, adenoids can block the nose and the Eustachian tubes that connect the back of the throat to the ears.
Typically, adenoids return to normal size once the underlying cause is resolved. However, in children with frequent or chronic infections, adenoiditis can sometimes persist.
Risk Factors for Adenoiditis
Certain risk factors can make a person susceptible to adenoid infections. These may include:
Recurrent infections in the throat, neck, or head.
Tonsil infection.
Contact with viruses, germs, and bacteria in the air.
Children are more susceptible to adenoiditis. This is because the adenoids gradually shrink during childhood. By late adolescence, the adenoids generally disappear.
Symptoms of Adenoiditis
Adenoiditis usually causes blockage in the airways, so the complaints generally experienced are:
Breathing problems, including when speaking.
Snoring while sleeping.
There is pain or dryness in the throat due to swelling and frequent breathing through the mouth.
Symptoms of infection, such asfeverand a cold.
There is enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck.
Presence of ear pain or hearing loss.
Restless while sleeping.
Breathe more through your mouth than your nose.
Bad breath or dry, chapped lips due to breathing through the mouth.
Difficulty swallowing.
The voice sounds nasal.
Nosemeler continously.
Often catch a cold.
Diagnosis Adenoiditis
Adenoiditis diagnosis is performed by an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist to accurately examine the location of the inflammation.
The doctor will make a diagnosis in several ways, namely:
Physical examination, to determine the location of the infection in the body. The doctor may also ask about the patient's and family's medical history.
Laboratory tests, to determine the cause of adenoiditis. This examination may include a rapid stress test (taking a sample of fluid from the back of the throat and tonsils), a throat culture (if the condition does not improve despite medication), and allergy testing (if the adenoiditis is suspected to be due to an allergic reaction).
Radiological examination, such as X-rays and CT scans to find the source of infection in the sinuses.
Adenoiditis Treatment
Medically, adenoiditis is categorized as either rhinosinusitis or pharyngitis. Therefore, doctors often treat adenoiditis by following the same treatment guidelines for rhinosinusitis and pharyngitis.
If the doctor suspects that the cause of adenoiditis iscommon coldor a common bacterial infection, antibiotics are not necessary for treatment. Usually, uncomplicated upper respiratory viral infections resolve within five to seven days.
1. Antibiotics
If symptoms persist and the cause points to an unusual bacteria, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Effective bacterial treatment should show improvement in symptoms within 48-72 hours. Treatment should last for ten days, as shorter treatment periods can lead to relapse and the development of antibiotic resistance.
2. Allergy treatment
If adenoiditis is caused by environmental allergies, your doctor will prescribe a nasal steroid spray, oral steroids, oral antihistamines, or some combination to see if symptoms improve.
The use of saline sprays and nasal cleansers can also be used as treatment in this case.
3. GERD Treatment
Adenoiditis caused by GERD can be managed by modifying lifestyle and diet. Patients can also use H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors to relieve symptoms.
4. Adenoidectomy
If there is no improvement in symptoms after undergoing the above treatment, the sufferer may need to be referred to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation.
In addition, there is a possibility that sufferers will need to undergo a surgical procedure called adenoidectomy.
Prevention of Adenoiditis
Adenoiditis can be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a strong immune system through regular exercise. Choose healthy and hygienic foods and drink enough water. The average daily water requirement for adults is 2 liters, and this can be higher if you engage in strenuous activity. Also, try to get enough sleep and consult a doctor immediately if you experience any medical problems.
Complications of Adenoiditis
Sufferers may experience a number of complications from adenoiditis. These complications can lead to chronic or severe inflammation of the adenoid tissue that spreads to other areas of the head and neck.
Some complications that may occur are:
Ear infectionAdenoids are located next to the Eustachian tube, which is the tube that allows fluid to drain from the ear. As adenoiditis progresses, the inflammation can block the opening of the tube leading to the middle ear. This can lead to infection and hearing loss.
Glue ear (middle ear infection)This complication occurs when mucus builds up and blocks the middle ear. This usually begins as a blockage of the Eustachian tube, which can affect hearing.
Sinusitis. The sinus cavities can fill with fluid and become infected. The sinuses are hollow areas within the facial bones around the eyes and nose that contain air sacs.
Chest infection.These conditions include pneumonia or bronchitis, which occur when the adenoids become severely infected by viruses or bacteria. The infection can spread to the lungs, bronchioles, and other structures in the respiratory system.
Vomiting. Sufferers may swallow a lot of pus while sleeping, which they may vomit in the morning.