Reasons for adenoid hypertrophy in children

Written by Huang Kun Mei

Pediatrics

Updated on March 14, 2025

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There are many causes of adenoid hypertrophy in children, most of which are due to infections. For instance, infections like pharyngitis or sinusitis can trigger adenoid hypertrophy. If a child experiences adenoid hypertrophy, it is recommended to visit the otolaryngology department of the hospital for a checkup. After a detailed examination to determine the specific cause, treatment can be tailored based on the child's individual condition. It is important to avoid greasy, spicy, and irritating foods when dealing with adenoid hypertrophy. It's advised that children consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits and engage in more outdoor activities.

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Written by Li Mao Cai

Otolaryngology

59sec

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Is adenoid hypertrophy related to rhinitis?

The adenoids are located at the rear end of the nasal cavity, specifically in the nasopharynx. When the adenoids become enlarged, they can affect the ventilation and drainage functions of the nasal cavity. Therefore, enlarged adenoids can cause rhinitis, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, and snoring during sleep; these impact the nasal ventilation, which are the most common symptoms. The rationale is that when the adenoids are enlarged, the nasal mucus cannot be normally drained through the nasal cavity's drainage function. As a result, children may exhibit symptoms of excessive nasal discharge and nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Additionally, the rhinitis caused by the enlarged adenoids leads to nasal congestion, which then manifests as the child snoring and breathing through the mouth during sleep. Over time, this can lead to a condition known as "adenoid facies."

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Written by Xu Qing Tian

Otolaryngology

41sec

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Postoperative care for adenoid hypertrophy removal surgery

Adenoid hypertrophy is currently treated primarily via surgical removal using a plasma scalpel to ablate the hypertrophied adenoid tissue, effectively treating the condition. The advantages of using a plasma scalpel include minimal bleeding during and after the surgery, less pain, smaller wounds, and faster healing and recovery, achieving significant therapeutic results. Post-surgery, it is advised that patients avoid hot baths and foot baths for two to three weeks, refraining from strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and excessive exercise, which could lead to bleeding. Diet-wise, it is recommended to avoid overly hot foods to prevent delayed postoperative bleeding of the adenoids.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu

Otolaryngology

47sec

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How is adenoid hypertrophy surgery performed?

The adenoid is a lymphoepithelial tissue located in the nasopharyngeal region. Enlargement of the adenoid can block the nasal passages, leading to snoring and sleep apnea, often requiring surgical removal of the adenoid. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Firstly, we use a catheter to suspend the soft palate to expose the adenoid tissue. Then, using a nasal endoscope, with the right hand holding a plasma knife, the enlarged adenoid is ablated. The surgery involves inserting the nasal endoscope and adenoid knife through the mouth. The procedure is relatively short, lasting about five to ten minutes. There is very little bleeding after the surgery, making it truly a minimally invasive procedure.

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Written by Li Mao Cai

Otolaryngology

1min

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What tests are needed for adenoid hypertrophy?

The adenoids are located at the back end of the nasal cavity in the nasopharyngeal area, so the examination needed for adenoid hypertrophy is generally the electronic nasopharyngoscopy. Electronic nasopharyngoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visual observation of the enlarged adenoids and the blockage of the posterior nasal apertures. Modern electronic nasopharyngoscopes are very thin; they can be inserted through the nostrils directly into the nasopharynx, providing a clear view of the adenoids with minimal discomfort and no radiation exposure, making it the preferred method. Another test that can be performed is a lateral X-ray of the nasopharynx. This examination has been a classic approach and is available in many township and county hospitals. It can accurately display the condition of adenoid hypertrophy and any airway obstruction. However, the only drawback is that it involves some level of radiation exposure.

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Written by Yao Jun

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

42sec

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How to check for adenoid hypertrophy?

Adenoid hypertrophy is mainly seen in infants and young children. Children with adenoid hypertrophy often also have enlarged tonsils. Therefore, it is important to ask if the patient breathes with their mouth open, snores, or has episodes of breath-holding. In older children, a nasal endoscopy can be performed to find that the adenoids block two-thirds or even up to three-quarters of the posterior nasal aperture. For smaller children who may not cooperate, imaging studies such as nasopharyngeal CT, X-rays, and lateral films can be used to detect adenoids. In the nasopharynx, the imaging will show the presence of soft tissue with clear boundaries from the surrounding areas.