A paediatrician, Leo Odudu, has said adenoiditis affects approximately one to five per cent of children globally and commonly seen in children between aged two and six.

Mr Odudu, the medical director of Emel Hospital, FESTAC, Lagos, disclosed this in Lagos on Thursday.

Mr Odudu said that adenoiditis comprises two conditions: adenoidal hypertrophy, which is the enlargement of the adenoids, and adenotonsillitis, an inflammation or infection of the adenoids and the tonsils.

He described the adenoids as part of the lymphoid tissue regarded as the body’s defence mechanism, which protects the throat and upper airway.

The paediatrician said that enlargement of the adenoids could lead to airway obstruction, causing difficulty in breathing.

According to him, adenotonsillitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection inhaled from the environment.

Adenoidal hypertrophy, on the other hand, is a consequence of the adenoids responding to repeated irritation of the upper airway and is common in children with allergic rhinitis.

“Clinical manifestations of adenoiditis include catarrh, cough, fever and noisy breathing. However, if the adenoids are enlarged, they can cause difficulty in breathing, mouth breathing and snoring.

“The symptoms are usually worse at night and early in the morning. Diagnosis is primarily clinical. Blood tests can help determine whether the condition is viral or bacterial in origin.

“An X-ray of the postnasal space will reveal airway obstruction in cases of adenoidal hypertrophy,” he said.

The paediatrician warned that untreated adenotonsillitis could lead to chronic sinusitis, bad breath and, in severe cases, spread to the brain in vulnerable children.

He said antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, while supportive care is recommended for viral causes.

Mr Odudu added that antihistamines and mild steroids could help reduce enlarged adenoids in affected children.

He advised parents to maintain good hygiene, ensure proper nutrition and identify environmental irritants that may trigger allergic reactions.

The doctor recommended surgery for recurrent cases that significantly affect a child’s health and quality of life.

(NAN)