Parents, If You See This Line On Your Child’s Face, It's Time To Visit A Paediatrician

As parents, there are times when we brush off snoring, mouth breathing, or drooling in children as just another habit. But did you know these could be signs of adenoids? If your child has a visible horizontal line below their lower eyelid or above the tip of the nose and often sleeps with an open mouth, it might be time to consult a paediatrician. Dr Nihar Parekh, Pediatrician, MBBS, DCH, MD (USAIM) took to his Instagram where he shared a reel explaining signs of adenoids in children. But what are adenoids?

What Are Adenoids And Why Do They Matter?Adenoids are small glands located at the back of the nose. They help fight infections in young children. However, they can become enlarged due to recurrent infections, allergies, or genetic factors. When this happens, they can block nasal airflow, leading to breathing and sleep issues.

Dr Parekh explains that adenoid enlargement is more common than most parents realize. If left untreated, it can lead to poor sleep and daytime fatigue and even affect a child’s facial development. So, what are the signs to look out for?

Signs Your Child Might Have Enlarged Adenoids

Many children with enlarged adenoids show subtle signs that parents often overlook. Here are some key symptoms:

- Mouth Breathing: If your child breathes mostly through their mouth, even when awake, it could indicate a blocked nasal passage due to swollen adenoids.

- Snoring or Noisy Breathing: Loud snoring or laboured breathing at night can be a red flag.

- Frequent Drooling: If your child drools excessively even after the teething phase, it could be linked to difficulty breathing through the nose.

- Sleep Disruptions: Restless sleep, frequent waking, or sleep apnea (pauses in breathing during sleep) are common signs.

- Nasal Speech: A child with enlarged adenoids may sound as if they have a blocked nose.

- Persistent Cold-like Symptoms: If your child constantly has a stuffy nose or cough but isn’t sick, adenoids could be the culprit.

How Early Detection Of Adenoids Can Help In TreatmentEnlarged adenoids can impact a child’s overall well-being if left untreated. Poor sleep can lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating in school, and slower growth. In some cases, chronic mouth breathing can even change facial structure, leading to a condition known as “adenoid facies.”

Dr Parekh warns, “Ignoring adenoid symptoms can have long-term effects on a child’s development. Early intervention ensures proper breathing, restful sleep, and better overall health.”

How Are Adenoids Treated?

Treatment is simple and varies based on severity. Here are some treatment options:

- Lifestyle Changes: Mild cases may resolve with time, nasal saline sprays, or avoiding allergens.

- Medications: Paediatricians may prescribe antihistamines or nasal steroids to reduce inflammation.

- Surgical Removal (Adenoidectomy): In severe cases, a minor surgery may be needed to remove the adenoids, improving breathing and sleep quality instantly.

If your child shows any of these signs, don’t wait. Consult a paediatrician and ensure they breathe, sleep, and grow properly.

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