Adenoids and Gag Reflex

[KyleG]

I have an extremely hyperactive gag reflex to a point where it triggers especially when I am doing something physical such as running or what ever. It gets triggered off by the constant post nasal drip that I have because of allergies. I saw a doctor in philly about this earlier this month and she found I had a lot of adenoid tissue. I researched adenoids and I found one article where a doctor stated "In children, enlarged adenoids and tonsils are leading causes for hypersensitive gag reflex."

Does anyone know if the adenoids affect your gag reflex and if so how?

I haven't really read any articles that clearly state this so I am hoping someone here may know something.,

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

How are you?
Adenoids are lymphoid tissue in the neck. Adenoids which enlarge can cause blockade of airflow through the nasal passages leading to mouth breathing.
It is not really known if they can cause sensitive gag reflex. Acid reflux is a common cause of gag reflex.
Please discuss this issue with an experienced ENT doctor. Do keep us posted!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Adenoids hyperplasia can cause obstructive sleep apnea and mouth breathing,but it causing gag reflex in adults is unheard.Causes of hyperactive gag reflex may be postnasal drip or cranial nerve compression esp glossopharyngeal and vagus nerve.It can also occur in in muscle diseases such as severe myasthenia gravis, or as a temporary result of anesthesia.

Pls discuss these possibilities with your doctor.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep us posted on how you are doing.