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What Are Tonsil Stones?Tonsil stones are calcified lumps of food, bacteria, dead cells and other matter that form in the pits of the tonsils in the throat. The tonsils are masses of lymph tissue situated in the back of the throat. Tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths or tonsil calculi) are clusters of calcifications, or stones, that develop in the tonsil’s craters (crypts). What Are Symptoms of Tonsil Stones?Tonsil stones are hard and look like white or yellowish formations on the tonsils. Frequently, tonsil stones do not cause symptoms. When symptoms occur, they include:
Small stones are common and are often swallowed without patients having symptoms or knowing they exist. Large stones are rare. What Causes Tonsil Stones?Tonsil stones are caused by several factors:
Several risk factors can predispose people to develop tonsil stones such as:
How Are Tonsil Stones Diagnosed?Tonsil stones are often easily diagnosed because they can usually be seen in the back of the throat on physical examination. They usually appear as white or yellowish spots on or around the tonsils, and can range in size from a grain of rice to a pea. Tests that can help diagnose tonsil stones include:
What Is the Treatment for Tonsil Stones?Tonsil stones often dissolve on their own, are coughed up, or are swallowed and no treatment is needed. If tonsil stones do not go away on their own, treatments include:
Removing tonsil stones at home is generally not recommended because tonsils are delicate tissues and bleeding and infection may occur if stones are not removed carefully. If tonsil stones are painful, large, or you are having difficulty breathing, see a doctor. Home remedies that may help get rid of tonsil stones include:
How Do You Prevent Tonsil Stones?Tonsil stones may be prevented by:
QUESTIONWhich illness is known as a viral upper respiratory tract infection? See AnswerReferences Medscape Medical Reference ENTHealth.org UpToDate.com How long does it take to dissolve tonsil stones?Most tonsil stones clear up in 1-3 weeks on their own. Large stones may remain on the tonsils for many years if not removed by a doctor.
How long does it take for tonsil stones to come out naturally?Tonsil stones may dislodge or dissolve on their own in a short time. Tonsil stones may last for weeks if bacteria continue to grow on the tonsils due to tonsil stones deep in the throat. If tonsil stones are ignored and left in place without lifestyle changes, they may last for years.
Will tonsil stones eventually fall out?The good news is that most tonsil stones will fall out on their own without causing much fuss. You may not even notice them until one day, you feel as if you've swallowed something unexpected.
How can I get immediate relief from tonsil stones?Gargling water
Gargling with warm salt water can help block bacteria or viruses from getting in your tonsils and causing issues. Additionally, it can help ease pain associated with tonsil stones.
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