Are My Child’s Tonsils Too Large?

As a parent, you are aware of every detail about your child. You know how much they sleep, what they eat, and how they move.

But what about how they breathe, particularly at night? If your child is snoring, it could be due to a common pediatric condition: tonsil and adenoid hypertrophy. This is particularly concerning if there are respiratory pauses when sleeping.

What is tonsil and adenoid hypertrophy?

The tonsils and adenoids play an important role in oral health by acting as the front line of defense against germs and bacteria that enter the mouth. They are small structures, roughly the size of almonds during childhood.

When either of these parts becomes enlarged—a condition known as hypertrophy—it can lead to breathing difficulties at any time of day and snoring/sleep apnea at night.

What are the symptoms of enlarged tonsils and adenoids?

Common symptoms of enlarged tonsils or enlarged adenoids include:

• Snoring
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Difficulty swallowing
• Muffled speech

In addition, this condition can also lead to increased ear infections due to its effects on the eustachian tubes.

Are there any home remedies for enlarged tonsils?

Temporarily enlarged tonsils or adenoids can be caused by infections. Along with antibiotics, your child’s physician may recommend home options for managing symptoms, such as:

• Drinking plenty of water or warm liquids like soup
• Over-the-counter pain medications
• Using a humidifier
• Getting plenty of rest

According to Dr. Christopher Tebbit, an otolaryngologist at CEENTA’s Belmont office, “Adequate restful sleep is integral to a child’s cognitive health and physical development.”

In cases where the tonsils and adenoids are naturally large, your child’s physician may choose to monitor them to see if they decrease in size over time as your child grows.

How can enlarged tonsils and adenoids be treated?

If the tonsils and adenoids do not shrink as your child ages or if they cause significant breathing and eating issues, surgical removal may be recommended. This procedure is often outpatient, with your child able to recover at home.

“Removing the tonsils and adenoids is very effective in relieving the most common cause of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea,” says Dr. Tebbit.

Whether your child is snoring at night or you simply want peace of mind, CEENTA’s board‑certified otolaryngologists can examine their tonsils and adenoids to determine what treatment options might be right for them.

Schedule your child’s tonsil and adenoid appointment with Dr. Tebbit online or through myCEENTAchart to get started.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.