We often hear people complain of a severe sore throat without any characteristic or visible swelling of the throat. This pain develops due to stones which are sticky pea-sized lumps that accumulate in the membranous folds of the throat. These stones are made up of minerals such as phosphorus and are not dangerous. But they must be treated as they cause severe discomfort when they get considerably large.

Tonsillitis symptoms

The symptoms of these stones are usually uncomfortable and invisible in the body. Characteristic symptoms of tonsilloliths include

• Halitosis: The presence of bad breath in the mouth is called halitosis. It develops mainly due to the accumulation of sulfurous substances produced by bacteria present in the throat or mouth. The greater the number of bacteria present in the mouth, the stronger the odor.

• Swelling in the throat: The tissues of the tonsils swell and can be felt in the throat as a hard lump. Throat swelling can also develop due to other conditions, but these stones are the main cause of frequent throat swelling.

• Presence of whitish debris in the throat: This is another characteristic symptom of tonsillitis. If such formations are observed, it is very important to consult an ENT doctor immediately to treat the inflamed tonsillar tissue.

• Severe ear pain: Few stone sufferers often develop a sharp pain in the ear suddenly. This is due to irritation of the common nerve that connects the ear, throat, and nose. This pain that develops in the ear or other related area due to throat problems is called referred pain.

In cases of severe infections of the tonsil tissue, a fever may also develop. Symptoms like halitosis and the formation of whitish debris in the throat can develop due to other conditions. Therefore, before using any medication for tonsil stones, consult an otolaryngologist for an accurate diagnosis.

treat these stones

If the pain keeps coming back, the best way to treat it is to remove the stones. Surgical removal of tonsil stones called a tonsillectomy is performed by a professional otolaryngologist. Many people are concerned about the pain and side effects of surgery and are hesitant to have surgery. The fact is that tonsillectomy is a non-invasive procedure that does not cause pain. The surgery is performed under anesthesia and requires only one or two days of hospitalization.