Does adenoid hypertrophy cause a runny nose?

Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
Updated on February 21, 2025
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Adenoid hypertrophy can cause a runny nose, which is a very common symptom of adenoid hypertrophy. Since the adenoids are located at the back of the nasal cavity, specifically in the nasopharynx, the mucus secreted by the nasal cavity normally flows backward, precisely to the back of the nasal cavity, passing over the adenoids. When the adenoids are enlarged, they block the drainage pathway of the mucus, causing most of it to flow out from the front of the nasal cavity. Therefore, adenoid hypertrophy can lead to a runny nose, which is one of its symptoms, and can also cause related symptoms of rhinitis such as nasal congestion. After nasal congestion, it may lead to various other manifestations, including snoring.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Treatment methods for adenoid hypertrophy

Adenoid hypertrophy refers to the hyperplasia and enlargement of the adenoid tissue in the nasopharynx, blocking the local upper airway passages, leading to conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, otitis media, and snoring during sleep. Clinically, there are two treatment methods: conservative medication and surgery. Currently, there are no specific drugs aimed at adenoid hypertrophy. Typically, treatments involve the use of nasal corticosteroids such as mometasone furoate nasal spray and anti-allergic medications like montelukast. However, the effectiveness of the treatment may vary from person to person or be unpredictable. Generally, medication is first tried for one to three months, or depending on the severity of the adenoid hypertrophy, treatment can last about two weeks to four weeks. If the medication is not effective, or shows no results, surgical intervention to remove the enlarged adenoids and facilitate airway clearance is necessary. (Please use medication under the guidance of a clinical doctor and do not self-medicate.)

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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 Lian Wen Xi
Pediatrics
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Does a child sleeping with their mouth open indicate enlarged adenoids?

The mouth and nose are two organs of the human body used for breathing. Normally, breathing is done through the nose, but when the nose is blocked, mouth breathing occurs. Therefore, mouth breathing is a sign of respiratory discomfort and nasal congestion. Common causes like acute and chronic rhinitis, upper respiratory infections, enlarged tonsils, enlarged adenoids, and nasal foreign bodies can all lead to children sleeping with their mouths open. Thus, a child sleeping with an open mouth does not necessarily indicate enlarged adenoids. If a child experiences nasal congestion, snoring, or mouth breathing for more than a month, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for a timely examination.

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Written by Yao Jun
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How to treat adenoid hypertrophy?

Adenoid hypertrophy mainly occurs in infants and children. It is a congenital disease, meaning that most children are born with varying degrees of adenoid hypertrophy. However, in many children, the adenoids begin to shrink after six months and generally do not cause symptoms. If the adenoids are enlarged, it can lead to the child breathing through their mouth, snoring, and gasping, which may cause facial changes, brain hypoxia, and delayed brain development. In such cases, adenoidectomy might be considered, generally performed under general anesthesia. However, some children with adenoid hypertrophy also have enlarged tonsils, so both surgeries are often performed together. Otherwise, if only the adenoid hypertrophy is treated without addressing enlarged tonsils, problems such as mouth breathing and snoring may not improve.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Is nasal discharge a sign of improvement in adenoid hypertrophy?

Enlargement of the adenoids accompanied by a runny nose is not a sign of improvement but a symptom of worsening. Enlargement of the adenoids is primarily due to symptoms caused by acute viral or bacterial infections following a decrease in the body’s immunity and resistance. This can lead to diffuse congestion and edema of the glands, causing the patient to experience persistent nasal congestion and discharge of yellow nasal mucus. In severe cases, it can cause nocturnal suffocation. Initially, a detailed examination at the hospital is necessary. Diagnosis can be confirmed with an electronic nasopharyngoscope and a nasopharyngeal CT. During the examination, granular masses can be found on the posterior wall of the nasopharynx; these are soft in texture and not painful. In terms of treatment, during the acute phase of adenoid hypertrophy, symptomatic anti-inflammatory treatment is required, including the use of antibiotics and concurrent nebulizer inhalation to reduce congestion and edema of the adenoids. If the enlargement persists and conservative treatment is ineffective, adenoidectomy may be necessary to achieve a complete cure.