Adenoid hypertrophy is a condition in which the unusual growth of the adenoid tonsil takes place. Adenoids are commonly referred as tonsil-like glands that are present at the back of the nose. Although, till now the function performed by the adenoids is not yet defined, it is believed that it helps in protecting children from any sort of infection. The disorder affects the children between the age group of 3-10 years. The size of the adenoid is small at the time of birth of a child. With the growth of the child, adenoid also grows. Adenoid stops growing once the child reaches at the age of 10-12 years. Once a child attained the age of 10 or 12 years, adenoid glands start shrinking. So, it is believed that during growth phase the problem occurs.

The exact cause of the condition is not yet unknown. It is believed that any kind of infection of upper respiratory tract results in excessive growth of the adenoid glands. 

No prevention exits for the condition.