Chronic or recurring adenoid infections (adenoiditis)

Adenoiditis is an infection or inflammation of the adenoids, typically characterized by:
  • Nasal stuffiness
  • Greenish nasal discharge
  • Mouth breathing
Adenoiditis is sometimes hard to distinguish from the common cold, and the adenoids usually do become inflamed as part of the cold virus. (Chronic adenoiditis is often the culprit in children who seem to "always have a cold.") Yet the color of the nasal discharge is an important clue, and doctors will usually base their diagnosis on the description of the symptoms.

Adenoiditis is much more common in children than in adults. Because the adenoids are located high in the throat behind the nose, it is difficult to obtain a cell culture in this area to determine whether or not a virus or bacteria is causing the infection. Initially, most doctors will assume it is a virus, which cannot be helped by antibiotics, and must simply run its course. If the symptoms last longer than 10 days, however, then it is more likely that it is caused by bacteria.

In children who have chronic or recurring adenoid infections, despite medical treatment, an adenoidectomy may be recommended.

Back to top

Why are they removed?

Tonsils only
Adenoids only
Tonsils and adenoids together Important Safety Information

Rx Only

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION!
THIS THERAPY IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN. A PRESCRIPTION IS REQUIRED.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL MEDTRONIC ENT AT 800-874-5797

THIS SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL YOUR DOCTOR OR 911 IMMEDIATELY.

This website is created and sponsored by Medtronic ENT as an informational and educational resource for the general public. The medical information within this website has been reviewed to ensure its accuracy. Medtronic ENT has a financial interest in the products sold in this medical field.
All articles and graphics copyright ©2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 Medtronic, Inc. All rights reserved. TM is trademark of Medtronic, Inc. ® is a registered trademark of Medtronic, Inc.
Please review our Privacy Policy, Terms Of Use or Contact Us for more information. Resource Page
Version 2.1.0 This webpage was first published on September 07, 2005, and was last updated on August 29, 2007.
LandmarX.com | Meniett.com | MedtronicENT.com | MicroFrance.com | ObstructedNose.com | SinusInfoCenter.com