Index
- What are Tonsil Stones?
- Why are they formed?
- The role of the amygdala
- The formation of stones
- The causes of training
- Symptoms of tonsil stones
- The main symptoms
- Related conditions
- The need for a doctor's diagnosis and the means of treatment
- A doctor's diagnosis
- Treatments
- How to prevent them?
- Why are they formed?
What are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones are formations of debris that the tonsil traps, irritating both the tonsil itself and the throat. People with these stones do not necessarily know what they are. However, although most are harmless, they are perfectly treatable.
Why are they formed?
The role of the amygdala
The amygdala is an almond-shaped paired organ located on each side of the back of the throat. Its role is to protect the pharynx against bacteria and thus helps to fight infections entering the mouth. By trapping foreign invaders such as viruses, it teaches the immune system to fight these germs.
The formation of stones
Debris such as food and dead cells trapped in the tonsil become hard and form the tonsil stones. They are also called tonsil stones or tonsilloliths. They can become a home for bacteria and have a very unpleasant smell.
The causes of training
These stones can be a sign of oral hygiene. People who do not brush their teeth regularly are at greater risk and more vulnerable to stones. The bacteria that cause stones can also cause tooth decay, gum disease and mouth infections. In the past, tonsillectomies were very common. They consisted of removing the tonsils to prevent their condition. Nowadays, the procedure is less common and is only used as a last resort. More people are then likely to have the tonsil stones. In any case, they are generally harmless although they are uncomfortable.
Symptoms of tonsil stones
The main symptoms
A very bad smell can occur when the stones appear. The anaerobic bacteria that penetrate them produce malodorous sulphides. The person presenting the stones will also feel discomfort in the back of their throat. Symptoms are accompanied by pressure or pain in the ears. Similarly, the tonsils may swell and become red. As for the appearance of the stones, they look like a small whitish or yellowish spot at the back of the throat. A large stone may be visible. Some are even large enough to stick out of the tonsils and look like tiny rocks. To prevent the tonsil stones from being a breeding ground for bacteria, treatment is necessary.
Related conditions
Apart from stones, other ailments can occur and cause pain near or in the tonsils. They are to be distinguished from stones although the symptoms can be similar.
- Tonsillitis: this is an infection of the tonsils that is often accompanied by fever.
- Streptococcal angina: it manifests itself as intense pain in the throat and is also accompanied by a fever.
- Gum disease and tooth decay: these diseases affect the teeth and jaws but can also affect the throat. If left untreated, they can spread to the mouth and other parts of the body.
- Cancer of the tonsils: the condition is also known as lymphoma of the tonsils. It can cause a sore at the back of the mouth and symptoms often include pain and difficulty swallowing.
An otolaryngologist may be involved in the treatment of tonsil diseases.
The need for a doctor's diagnosis and the means of treatment
A doctor's diagnosis
A person who experiences the symptoms of a tonsil stone with no visible stone should see a doctor to diagnose the condition. Similarly, if the tonsils are red and painful or swollen. A person cannot remove tonsil stones at home, at least not completely.
Treatments
- Use a cotton swab and gargle: The use of a cotton swab can help loosen the stone by gently pressing on the surrounding fabric. By positioning the swab behind the stone, it is pushed towards the front of the mouth rather than into the throat. At the same time, if the stones make it difficult to swallow, one can also try gargle with warm salt water.
- Cryptolysis: This is a process that the doctor begins to reshape the tonsils in order to reduce the cracks where they can grow. However, it is always possible that the stones may reappear again.
- Tonsillectomy: It is the safest procedure to treat and prevent tonsil stones permanently. It consists of completely removing the tonsils, very rarely is there a risk that they will grow back.
How to prevent them?
It is almost impossible to prevent the growth of stones in the tonsils. Tonsillectomy is still the only safe way to prevent it. However, this procedure can cause pain in the throat for several days after the operation. Of course, common risks such as infections and bleeding are always present. The most dangerous are breathing difficulties due to swelling and life-threatening reactions to the anaesthetic. Maintaining good oral hygiene can also help prevent tonsil infections. For example, a water spray that is irrigated into the tonsils can remove debris from the tonsils. This can reduce the risk of stones appearing.
