Adenoids

The adenoids are located in the passage connecting the nasal cavity (nasopharynx) and the throat. Adenoids are immune tissues present from birth, with immune functions similar to the tonsils. They continue to develop until around age 7 and gradually shrink, usually becoming very small in adulthood.
Enlarged adenoids can allow bacteria to travel from the nasal cavity and cause middle ear infections, middle ear effusion, and other diseases in children. If medication is insufficient, or if adenoids cause breathing or sleep problems, or recurrent inflammation leading to middle ear issues, surgical intervention may be considered using minimally invasive techniques.