Does adenoid hypertrophy cause yellow nasal discharge?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on March 30, 2025
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The glands located in our nasopharyngeal area are immune tissues. Enlargement of these glands can lead to an increase in their size, which may block our posterior nasal apertures. Consequently, the secretions in our nasal cavity cannot be properly discharged. This may eventually lead to spontaneous infections causing sinusitis, characterized by the discharge of yellow nasal mucus. Thus, there is a direct relationship between the occurrence of sinusitis in children and the enlargement of these glands. Clinically, it can be observed that after surgery for gland enlargement, the symptoms of sinusitis and the discharge of yellow nasal mucus are significantly reduced or even completely cured. Therefore, it can be said that there is a direct relationship between gland enlargement and conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, and the discharge of yellow nasal mucus.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What should be done about children's adenoid hypertrophy?

In the case of adenoid hypertrophy in children, the first step is to assess the severity of the enlargement. If the adenoids are enlarged to the third degree, affecting breathing, especially with noticeable snoring after falling asleep at night, or symptoms such as frequent waking due to choking and hypoxia, surgery is generally recommended. This involves going to an otolaryngology department to surgically remove the enlarged adenoids. If the enlargement is only at the first degree or between the first and second degrees, and not very severe, local anti-inflammatory and swelling-reducing medications can be used for treatment.

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Written by Huang Kun Mei
Pediatrics
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Reasons for adenoid hypertrophy in children

There are many causes of adenoid hypertrophy in children, most of which are due to infections. For instance, infections like pharyngitis or sinusitis can trigger adenoid hypertrophy. If a child experiences adenoid hypertrophy, it is recommended to visit the otolaryngology department of the hospital for a checkup. After a detailed examination to determine the specific cause, treatment can be tailored based on the child's individual condition. It is important to avoid greasy, spicy, and irritating foods when dealing with adenoid hypertrophy. It's advised that children consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits and engage in more outdoor activities.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can you eat fish with enlarged adenoids?

Patients with adenoid hypertrophy can eat fish, as fish is a common type of meat and does not have side effects on the condition of adenoid hypertrophy, nor does it affect the treatment outcome of adenoid hypertrophy. There is also no direct conflict with the medications used to treat adenoid hypertrophy. For patients with significant adenoid enlargement accompanied by related clinical symptoms, such as nasal congestion, mouth breathing, and snoring during sleep, timely treatment is necessary. Most patients can opt for treatment with oral medications combined with nasal spray medications. If conservative medical treatment is ineffective and the condition is severe, surgical removal might be considered.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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What tests are needed for adenoid hypertrophy?

The adenoids are located at the back end of the nasal cavity in the nasopharyngeal area, so the examination needed for adenoid hypertrophy is generally the electronic nasopharyngoscopy. Electronic nasopharyngoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visual observation of the enlarged adenoids and the blockage of the posterior nasal apertures. Modern electronic nasopharyngoscopes are very thin; they can be inserted through the nostrils directly into the nasopharynx, providing a clear view of the adenoids with minimal discomfort and no radiation exposure, making it the preferred method. Another test that can be performed is a lateral X-ray of the nasopharynx. This examination has been a classic approach and is available in many township and county hospitals. It can accurately display the condition of adenoid hypertrophy and any airway obstruction. However, the only drawback is that it involves some level of radiation exposure.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can adenoid hypertrophy recur after removal?

The adenoid is located in the lymphatic epithelial tissue of the nasopharyngeal area. Enlargement of the adenoid can block breathing and obstruct the pharyngeal opening of the Eustachian tube, leading to secretory otitis media, and may result in secondary infections of the sinuses. Therefore, for symptoms such as snoring and hearing loss that occur simultaneously after adenoid enlargement, surgical removal is performed. The adenoid does not have a complete capsule, so it is only possible to remove the adenoid tissue as much as possible, and it cannot guarantee the complete removal of all adenoid tissue. Therefore, there is a small rate of recurrence after adenoid removal, with a recurrence rate of about 0.5%, meaning that the recurrence leading to the reappearance of symptoms is around 0.5%. Whether further treatment is needed after recurrence requires an in-person assessment at a hospital.