Adenoid

Adenoid – An Overview

An adenoidectomy is a procedure in which a doctor removes the adenoids. The adenoids are two to three centimetres long, thin, fleshy glands in the back of the throat. These glands produce and secrete mucus that helps clear bacteria from the respiratory tract and lubricates your airways. When the adenoids are removed, your airways will be cleaner and easier to clear of debris. At the same time, surgery may improve your breathing temporarily.

Why it’s done

Adenoid surgery involves removing abnormal adenoids that are blocking breathing passages or contributing to nasal congestion. It is not done for tonsillitis (sore throat). It is often performed as part of sinus surgery and may also be done as an outpatient procedure. Following are a few of the conditions when this surgery is necessary.

1. To reduce chronic nasal symptoms like congestion, allergies, and asthma.
2. To clear the nasal passage and make you breathe better.
3. To improve breathing performance.
4. To reduce the risk of developing middle ear infections.
5. To reduce the risk of developing a sinus infection.

What to expect:

The post-surgery care will include medications to promote healing and prevent any complications. Some patients who have had adenoidectomy surgery report a lot of snoring during the night. This can be a symptom of more complicated problems related to sinuses. If you’re suffering from chronic sinusitis, your doctor may suggest that you see an ENT specialist who specializes in sleep disorders such as sinusitis.