Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths) are small lumps found in your tonsils.
Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths) are small lumps found in your tonsils.
What are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths) are small lumps found in your tonsils. Bad breath is the main sign of tonsil stone. Tonsil stones can be removed at home by using a saltwater gargle and a water pick. Your provider may recommend surgery if the tonsil stones continue to bother you or come back.
Symptoms of Tonsil Stones
Some tonsil stones are not symptomatic. If symptoms do occur, these may be:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Cough
- Earache
- Sore throat
- Bad taste in the mouth
- You might spit small white or yellow stones
- Difficulty swallowing
- Feeling like something is stuck in your throat
- You will notice small white spots on your tonsils
- Throat infections that are difficult to treat with antibiotics
Causes of Tonsil Stones
Tonsillar crypts can trap materials and debris. Materials can become hardened or calcified, which can lead to the formation of stones. The material could be trapped as:
- Calcium
- Food and debris
- Bacteria and fungi
