Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms & Removal

What are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones, sometimes referred to "tonsilloliths," are tiny stones or lumps of solidified substance that can develop in the tonsils. They are more prevalent in adults than in youngsters and can lead to poor breath. It is uncommon to have a huge tonsil stone, and so the stones are often little.

Tonsil stones are not hazardous and may not require treatment, but if they become a problem, surgical alternatives are available.

Causes of Tonsil Stones

Lymphoid tissues make up the tonsils, which have crypts. Crypts resemble holes, where germs and other detritus may become lodged, causing the tonsil stones. Some people may have larger or more crypts in their tonsils than others, which increases their risk of developing tonsil stones.

One the tonsil crypts are blocked by detritus that harden and calcify, tonsil stones form. Detritus can come in the form of minerals, food, debris, fungus, or bacteria.

Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

In some cases, and due to the size of the tonsil stones, symptoms may not be present. If symptoms do manifest, they may consist of the following:

• Bad breath or halitosis
• A cough that makes you feel uncomfortable or like there's something stuck in your throat
• A terrible taste in your mouth
• Irritated and swollen tonsils
• Difficulty swallowing
• Earache

The back of the throat may have little white or yellow flecks that resemble tonsil stones. There might be a big stone, which sticks out of the tonsils, looking like little boulders stuck in the mouth.

When to see a doctor for Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones may typically be treated at home. However, a doctor might need to remove big stones that hurt or create other issues. Also, your doctor might advise having your tonsils removed if your tonsil stones keep returning or are really affecting you. A crucial component of your treatment is follow-up care. Hence, it is always best to consult with your doctor if your tonsil stones are causing you discomfort.