Adenoids are tiny masses of tissue found at the back of the throat which have similarities to the tonsils. Adenoids are a vital component of the immune system which works by trapping harmful germs that enter through the mouth or nose. Adenoids also produce antibodies that help the body fight infections. As the person starts to age, the adenoids are less important because the body is capable of fighting infections. On the other hand, the adenoids sometimes become smaller in size around the age of 5 or 6 and disappear by the teenage years.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYa4cWGrVgg”]Even though adenoids help in eliminating germs out of the body, sometimes they can be infected with high amounts of bacteria. They can become inflamed and swollen which is known as adenoiditis and children are more susceptible to this condition than in adults.
Causes of swollen adenoids
- Infections due to bacteria and viruses
Cessation of breathing for a short time while sleeping or sleep apnea. - Allergies on certain foods
- A possibility that the child has swollen glands in early childhood and eventually becomes enlarge as the baby grows.
Symptoms
- Children with swollen adenoids tend to breathe through the mouth rather than the nose. The enlarged adenoids causes blockage of the airways which makes it hard to breathe
- Cessation of breathing for a short time while sleeping or sleep apnea.
- The noise that comes from the vibration of soft tissues which are lining the inner walls of the throat. This occurs once the flow of air through the airway is obstructed due to swollen adenoids.
- Difficulties in breathing
- Glue ear or otitis media with effusion is a common condition during childhood where the middle part of the ear is filled with fluid and leads to impaired hearing loss.
Treatment
- In a glass filled with warm water, mix a tablespoon of salt and mix well until it is completely dissolved. Gargle this solution at least 3 times every day for 5-7 days. High concentration of salt in the water helps lessen the swelling of the tissues and symptoms of snoring and difficulty in swallowing.
- Garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that helps eliminate pathogenic or disease-producing bacteria. Garlic can be consumed fresh or an alternative is to prepare it by crushing and mixed with lemon and honey and slightly sauté using ghee which is clarified butter used for Asian cuisines to achieve best results.
- Honey and lemon contains anti-inflammatory properties that helps minimize swollen adenoids and tonsils. Prepare a teaspoon of honey and mix it with 2-3 drops of lemon juice and consume at least 3 times every day for relief from the throat pain.
- Consume warm beverages can help relax the swollen nodes. Consume mild tea added with a few drops of honey, clear soup or honey in warm water.