Question

After a previous fever, the child has been suffering from a persistent cough and runny nose. A check-up revealed adenoid hypertrophy at 70% severity, with the doctor suggesting surgery or waiting for natural recovery. Since there were no previous obvious breathing symptoms, we chose to take symptomatic anti-inflammatory medication and got some relief. However, after the last cold, the child has developed clear and yellow nasal discharge again, occasionally with hiccups, and wakes up at night due to nasal congestion. As parents, we are somewhat worried. How were the past treatment and its effects?

Answer

  1. The child’s clear and yellow nasal discharge and hiccups may be caused by an upper respiratory infection rather than adenoid hypertrophy. Acute sinusitis is often caused by upper respiratory infections and may present with purulent nasal discharge. It is recommended to take an X-ray of the sinuses to confirm.
  2. The adenoids may swell during inflammation, but they should slightly shrink when the inflammation subsides. An X-ray without infection is meaningful. If adenoid hypertrophy causes snoring and other symptoms, consider surgery as it may affect the child’s jawbone and intellectual development.