Swollen Tonsils and Adenoids in Kids: Natural Causes and Treatments
The tonsils and adenoids are part of the immune system and help protect the body from infections, especially in young children. These immune glands help trap and filter bacteria, viruses, and other harmful particles that enter the body through the mouth and nose. They contain white blood cells that help fight infections, reducing the risk of respiratory infections. In early childhood, they help "train" the immune system to recognize and respond to harmful invaders.
Where are the tonsils and adenoids?
Tonsils: Located at the back of the throat (one on each side). The tonsils can be seen by looking at the back of the mouth.
Adenoids: Located higher up in the throat, behind the nose. The adenoids cannot be seen on visual inspection. Swelling here is often assumed based on symptoms or diagnosed with imaging by your medical doctor.
As children grow, their immune system matures, and the tonsils and adenoids often shrink in size since they become less important for immune defense. However, if they become chronically swollen, they can cause persistent breathing difficulties, recurrent infections, or sleep problems.
What causes chronic inflammation of these glands?
Infections – Viral (e.g., cold, flu) and bacterial (e.g., Streptococcus infections) infections can cause inflammation.
Allergies – Environmental allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander can trigger chronic inflammation.
Chronic Sinus Infections – Frequent sinus infections can lead to persistent adenoid swelling.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (The Ear Drainage Tube) – The adenoids are located near the opening of the Eustachian tubes, which help regulate pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear. If these tubes become blocked or fail to open and close properly, fluid buildup and infections can occur, leading to chronic inflammation and adenoid enlargement. Conversely, adenoid enlargement can cause eustachian tube dysfunction.
Tongue Tie - Children with tongue-tie may have difficulty keeping their tongue in the proper resting position on the roof of the mouth. This can lead to chronic mouth breathing, which dries out the throat and nasal passages, increasing irritation and inflammation in the tonsils and adenoids. Tongue-tie can affect swallowing mechanics, leading to improper tongue movements that may contribute to mucus buildup and throat irritation. Tongue-tie is sometimes linked to conditions like sleep apnea or snoring, which can cause airway inflammation. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are common in children with Sleep Breathing Disorder.
Acid Reflux– Stomach acid reaching the throat can irritate and enlarge the adenoids. This can be caused by foods that increase stomach acid or by high fat foods that prolong opening of the connection between the stomach and esophagus allowing acid to rise into and irritate the throat.
Irritants – Exposure to smoke, pollution, or strong chemicals may contribute to swelling.
Genetic Factors – Some children naturally have larger adenoids, which may be more prone to swelling.
Foods That May Contribute to Adenoid and Tonsil Swelling:
Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, Yogurt, Ice Cream) – Dairy can increase mucus production in some children, which may contribute to congestion and inflammation around the adenoids and tonsils. Higher fat dairy will increase the level of mucus production.
Sugary Foods and Processed Sweets – Excess sugar can weaken the immune system and promote bacterial or fungal growth, increasing the risk of infections that lead to swollen adenoids and tonsils.
Refined Carbohydrates (White Bread, Pasta, Pastries) – These foods can break down into sugar quickly, potentially feeding harmful bacteria and increasing inflammation.
Fried and Processed Foods – These foods contain unhealthy fats and additives that may promote mucus and inflammation in the body.
Allergy-Inducing Foods (Gluten, Nuts, Shellfish, Eggs, Soy, etc.) – If a child has food allergies or intolerances, consuming trigger foods can cause inflammation.
Acidic Foods (Citrus Fruits, Tomatoes, Spicy Foods, Soda) – Acidic foods may irritate the throat, especially if the child has acid reflux, which can contribute to enlarged tonsils and adenoids over time.
Foods That May Help Reduce Swelling
Anti-Inflammatory Foods (Leafy Greens, Turmeric, Ginger, Berries, Omega-3s from Fish and Flaxseeds) – These can help reduce inflammation and support immune function.
Hydrating Foods (Cucumbers, Watermelon, Soups, Herbal Teas) – Staying hydrated can help thin mucus and reduce congestion.
Probiotic-Rich Foods (Yogurt, Kefir, Fermented Vegetables) – If dairy isn’t a trigger, probiotics can help balance gut bacteria and support immunity.
Honey and Warm Liquids – Honey has antimicrobial properties and can soothe the throat, while warm broths and herbal teas may help reduce inflammation.
If a child has recurrent swollen adenoids or tonsils, it may be worth evaluating their diet to see if certain foods are contributing to inflammation. There are also natural herbal medicines, vitamins and minerals that may help to balance the immune system, reduce inflammation and reduce mucus.
Naturopathic approaches to managing tonsil and adenoid swelling include:
· Supporting the immune system with nutrition and herbal medicine
· Minimizing allergen exposure and reducing over reactivity
· Reducing high acid and high fat foods
· Reducing foods that are pro-inflammation