Adenoid hypertrophy refers to abnormal enlargement of the adenoids, lymphoid tissue located at the back of the nasal cavity. This condition is most commonly seen in children and can significantly affect breathing, sleep quality, and ear health. Adenoids are part of the immune system and typically grow during early childhood before gradually shrinking during adolescence.

Enlargement often occurs due to repeated infections, allergies, or chronic inflammation. When adenoids become excessively large, they obstruct the nasal airway, forcing children to breathe through the mouth. This can lead to persistent nasal blockage, snoring, disturbed sleep, and daytime fatigue.

Common symptoms include mouth breathing, nasal speech, snoring, recurrent ear infections, hearing problems, and poor sleep quality. In severe cases, children may develop sleep-disordered breathing or obstructive sleep apnea, affecting growth and cognitive development.

Diagnosis is made through clinical assessment, nasal endoscopy, or imaging when necessary. Hearing tests are often performed due to the close relationship between adenoids and middle ear function.

Management depends on severity. Mild cases may be managed medically with treatment of infections and allergies. Persistent or severe symptoms often require adenoidectomy, a safe and effective surgical procedure that significantly improves breathing, sleep, and ear health.