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Enlarged adenoids - Symptom

Alternative Names

Adenoids - enlarged

Symptoms:

Bad breath
Cracked lips
Dry mouth
Frequent ear infections
Intermittent sleep apnea
Mouth breathing (mostly at night)
Mouth open during day (more severe obstruction)
Persistent runny nose or nasal congestion
Restlessness while sleeping
Snoring

Signs and tests:

The adenoids cannot be seen by looking in the mouth directly, but can be seen with a special mirror or using a flexible endoscope through the nose.

Tests may include:

X-ray (side view of the throat)
Sleep apnea studies (severe cases only)

Throat anatomy

Adenoids

Reviewed last on: 12/1/2008
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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