The adenoid tissue is found in the very back of the nose. It is part of the immune system, which helps protect kids from getting sick.

Adenoid tissue can get bigger (enlarge) from infections, allergies, or reflux (when stomach acid backs up into the throat). If the adenoid tissue is enlarged for a long time, it can cause sleep problems, ear infections, and other issues.

Based on your child's age and whether the enlarged adenoid tissue is causing other problems, your child's healthcare provider may:

• Watch to see if the adenoid tissue gets smaller on its own
• Prescribe medicine
• Recommend surgery to remove the tissue (an adenoidectomy)

Here's how to care for your child.

• Give your child any medicine as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Make sure your child follows up with any specialist (such as an ear, nose, and throat doctor) as recommended.
• Smoking/vaping and being around smoke/vapor can make infections and breathing problems more likely and cause many other health issues. Make your home and car smoke- and vapor-free. For help quitting, call 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669) or visit smokefree.gov.

Your child has new symptoms, such as:

• Thick mucus coming from the nose
• Snoring, gasping sounds, or pauses in breathing while sleeping
• Fever
• Ear pain
• Being very tired during the day or falling asleep during school

What causes enlarged adenoid tissue? In kids, it is usually caused by:

• Frequent infections, such as colds, flu, or sinus infections
• Allergies
• Gastroesophageal reflux
• A short-term infection (such as mononucleosis or "mono") caused by certain viruses

What problems can enlarged adenoid tissue lead to? Kids with enlarged adenoid tissue may snore, have a stuffy or runny nose, have restless sleep, stop breathing for a few seconds during sleep, get a lot of ear infections, or talk as if the nose is pinched shut. They may also breathe through their mouth a lot, which — over time — can change the shape of their face.

Is adenoid tissue the same as "adenoids"? Yes. Even though there is only one mass of tissue, the term "adenoids" is also used.

Because the adenoid tissue protects kids from getting sick, if it is removed, will my child get more infections? Children who have an adenoidectomy are not more likely to get infections. Different parts of the immune system take over for the adenoid tissue to help fight infections.