Enlarged Tonsils & Adenoids in Children

Enlarged Tonsils & Adenoids in Children

Snoring, Mouth Breathing, or Frequent Infections?

Enlarged tonsils and adenoids can cause problems with breathing, sleep, speech, and ear health. At ENT Sinus Center of Orlando, we evaluate and treat these conditions to help your child feel better, sleep better, and stay healthier.

  • Tonsils and adenoids are part of the immune system, helping to trap bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth or nose.● Tonsils are located at the back of the throat.● Adenoids are higher up, behind the nose and roof of the mouth.
    While they’re useful early in life, these tissues can become enlarged or frequently infected, especially in children.

  • Loud snoring or noisy breathing during sleep● Mouth breathing (especially at night)● Sleep apnea or pauses in breathing● Nasal-sounding speech● Trouble swallowing● Chronic sore throats or tonsillitis● Recurrent ear infections or fluid in the ears● Behavioral or focus issues from poor sleep

  • Repeated throat or sinus infections● Allergies or environmental irritants● Family history of large tonsils or adenoids● Immune system response in young children
    Children with enlarged adenoids often appear congested even without a cold, and may develop hearing or speech delays due to related ear fluid.

  • Evaluation may include:● Physical exam of the tonsils and throat● Nasal endoscopy (to view the adenoids)● Sleep study (for suspected sleep apnea)● Hearing test (if ear issues are present)

  • Non-Surgical:● Observation (in mild cases)● Antibiotics for infection● Allergy treatment (if swelling is allergy-related)
    Surgical:● Tonsillectomy (removal of tonsils)● Adenoidectomy (removal of adenoids)● Sometimes both procedures are done together, especially if the child has sleep apnea or frequent infections.
    These are safe outpatient surgeries with minimal recovery time and strong success rates.

  • Consider a specialist visit if your child:● Snores or gasps at night● Has frequent strep throat or tonsillitis● Breathes mostly through the mouth● Has repeated ear infections● Shows signs of poor sleep or daytime fatigue

Next Steps

We’re here to help your child breathe, sleep, and feel better. Schedule a consultation with ENT Sinus Center of Orlando to discuss tonsil and adenoid care.