Adenoids can become infected or inflamed, a condition known as adenoiditis. When infected, adenoids can swell and cause various symptoms, including:
Treatment for adenoiditis depends on the severity of symptoms. In cases of persistent or severe adenoiditis, or if the enlarged adenoids cause breathing or sleep problems, a healthcare provider might recommend adenoidectomy—a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids. Adenoidectomy is a common and relatively safe procedure, especially in cases where enlarged adenoids cause significant issues or recurrent infections.