Why They Form
- Tonsil Crypts: People with larger, irregular, or pitted tonsils are more prone to trapping debris.
- Bacterial Accumulation: Bacteria, including anaerobes, feed on the trapped material, producing sulfur compounds that smell bad.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Failure to brush, floss, or gargle allows for more debris buildup.
Common Symptoms
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): The most common symptom, caused by bacteria, says Medical News Today.
- Visible White/Yellow Spots: Small lumps that may be visible in the back of the throat.
- Foreign Body Sensation: Feeling as though something is stuck in the throat.
- Sore Throat or Ear Pain: Occurs when the stones get too big or cause inflammation. Medical News Today +4
How to Manage Them
- Gargling: Using warm salt water can help loosen and dislodge them, says Healthdirect.
- Gentle Removal: Using a cotton swab, Waterpik, or toothbrush to gently dislodge them, according to a Facebook post.
- Improved Oral Care: Brushing teeth and flossing regularly is essential for prevention.
- Medical Treatment: If they are large, painful, or recur frequently, a doctor may suggest treatments or, in rare cases, removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy), notes