Normal Enlargement vs. Pathological Hypertrophy
Key Influencing Factors
Direct Factors
Recurrent upper respiratory infections (URIs)
Chronic nasopharyngitis
Inflammation of nasal cavities, sinuses, or tonsils stimulating adenoid hyperplasia.
Predisposing Factors
Allergies
Gastroesophageal reflux
Hyperplasia of lymphoid tissue
Blockage Progression & Symptom Development
How Does It Escalate Irreversibly?
Stage 1: <50% Blockage
Daytime: Minimal issues, normal breathing
Night: Occasional nasal congestion, snoring, restless sleep, frequent tossing.
Stage 2: ~70% Blockage
Nasal breathing becomes labored
Loud nighttime snoring
Mouth breathing habit forms
Facial development risks emerge.
Stage 3: Near-Complete Blockage
Forced mouth breathing → Adenoid facies
Impacts extend to voice, hearing, height, memory, attention, learning, mental health, and social skills.
Age 6: Critical Intervention Window
Since adenoids peak at
6–7 years,
early treatment before age 6 is optimal.
At this stage:
Symptoms are milder
Facial development remains malleable
Nasal breathing is still possible
Conservative therapies (e.g., medication, nasal sprays) are more viable.
Parental Alert: Monitor for abnormal symptoms (snoring, mouth breathing, poor sleep). Early medical consultation prevents severe complications.
