Adenoids are tiny tissue patches seen at the back of the throat. They are placed directly above the tonsils and are identical to them. If you look towards the back of your throat, you can see your tonsils, but not your adenoids. Adenoids and tonsils are both components of the immune system, that aid in the prevention and treatment of infection in the body. If the adenoids expand, they can cause complications. Fortunately, they are not required by the immune system and can usually be addressed by eliminating them.
How does it cause?
At birth, adenoids are present. They develop till a youngster is between the ages of three and five. They usually start to shrink at the age of 7. In adulthood, they diminish significantly. They are found in the channel connecting the back of the nasal cavity to the throat. They create antibodies that aid your body in fighting illnesses. Adenoids protect newborns from infection during their early years by capturing germs and viruses that enter the body through the nose. Infected adenoids typically grow, but return to normal size once the infection has cleared. In certain cases, however, the adenoids remain swollen even after the infection has cleared. Allergies can also induce enlarged adenoids. Some children have larger adenoids from birth.
How it is diagnosed
The doctor will first inquire about your child’s symptoms. Your youngster will then be examined physically. To observe the adenoids, the doctor will use a special mirror and put a small, flexible telescope into the nose. Depending on what your doctor discovers, your child may require a blood test to rule out infection. In extreme circumstances, your child may require a sleep study. This will identify whether they have sleep apnea. Your youngster will spend the night at a facility while their respiration and brain activity is monitored using electrodes. The study is painless, however, some children may find it challenging to sleep in a foreign setting.
Credits: Healthline
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