Adenoiditis is a medical term that refers to the inflammation of the adenoids. Its correct spelling is [ædənɔɪˈdaɪtɪs]. The first syllable "ad" is pronounced with a short "a" sound [æ], while the second syllable "en" is pronounced as [ɛn]. The third syllable "oid" is pronounced as ['ɔɪd], where the "oi" sounds like the "oy" in "boy". The last syllable "itis" is pronounced with a long "i" sound [aɪ] and a short "t" sound [t]. Adenoiditis is usually treated with antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgical removal of the adenoids.
Adenoiditis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the adenoids. The adenoids are a cluster of lymphoid tissues located in the back of the nasal cavity, near the opening of the Eustachian tubes.
When the adenoids become infected or inflamed, it can lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, sore throat, ear pain, and recurrent ear infections. Adenoiditis is most commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections, but it can also occur due to allergies or other underlying conditions.
Diagnosis of adenoiditis is often done by a medical professional through physical examination and evaluation of symptoms. Treatment options for adenoiditis may include antibiotics to clear the infection, nasal decongestants or saline sprays to alleviate congestion, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and pain medication to manage discomfort.
In severe or persistent cases, surgical removal of the adenoids may be recommended. This procedure, known as adenoidectomy, involves removing the infected or enlarged adenoid tissues. Adenoidectomy is typically considered when adenoiditis leads to recurrent infections, ear problems, or obstructive sleep apnea.
Overall, adenoiditis is a condition that affects the adenoids, causing inflammation and infection. Prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and management of underlying conditions can help alleviate symptoms and improve the overall health of individuals with adenoiditis.
Inflammation of adenoid growths in the rhinopharynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "adenoiditis" is derived from two components: "adenoid" and "itis".
- "Adenoid": The term "adenoid" refers to the adenoids, which are a mass of lymphatic tissue located at the back of the nose and upper throat, behind the uvula. The word "adenoid" originates from the Greek word "adenoeides", meaning "like a gland", which is a combination of "aden", meaning "gland", and "-oeides", meaning "resembling".
- "Itis": The suffix "-itis" is derived from the Greek word "itis", which denotes inflammation or swelling. It is commonly added to word roots to form medical terms related to inflammatory conditions.
Therefore, "adenoiditis" combines "adenoid" with the suffix "-itis" to define a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the adenoids.