However, these holes at the back of the throat can trap bacteria and become blocked with food particles, mucus, and other debris. Some conditions and situations that affect the holes in the tonsils can cause inflammation , a sore throat , and other bothersome symptoms. Learn more about them and what to do in this article. Tonsils are gland-like structures at the back of the throat. They contain cells called lymphocytes that help fight off and protect the body from infections. Tonsils help trap bacteria and viruses that enter via the throat, stopping them before they reach other parts of the body.
Holes in the tonsils can inform the immune system about what a person is ingesting through their mouth. But, because of their role in tackling bacteria and viruses, tonsils are also susceptible to infections. If the tonsils become swollen, then inflammation, debris, or the formation of scar tissue due to another condition may block the holes.
Several conditions can affect the holes in the tonsils and put a person at risk of infection, including:. Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become inflamed, usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. Both children and adults can get tonsillitis, though it is more likely to occur in children. A person with tonsillitis may be able to feel the swollen glands in their neck.
Other symptoms of tonsillitis include:. Strep throat is a form of tonsillitis. This infection of the throat and tonsils more commonly occurs in children. A person gets strep throat by coming into contact with group A Streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat is infectious and passed on through the germs in coughs and sneezes.
Mono is infectious and is most common in young adults, including teenagers, and particularly college students. The most common cause of infectious mononucleosis is the transmission of the Epstein-Barr virus EBV from person to person. However, some other virus types may also cause it. If a person does not practice good oral hygiene, a buildup of bacteria could cause an infection in the tonsils. Tonsil stones can occur when debris, such as food, dead cells, or bacteria, become trapped in the holes in the tonsils and calcify, forming hard stones.
In some cases, tonsil stones can lead to chronic tonsil inflammation or infection of your tonsils, called tonsillitis. But in many cases, they are simply a nuisance. If you have a history of developing tonsil stones, the best way to get rid of them permanently is to remove your tonsils. Surgery to take out the tonsils is called a tonsillectomy. As with all surgeries, it carries some risks, such as bleeding after surgery. Most people have throat pain after a tonsillectomy.
But the pain often can be effectively managed with medications, along with plenty of fluids and rest. If your doctor recommends against a tonsillectomy due to your medical history, age or other factors, or if you simply would rather not have your tonsils removed, you can take other steps to deal with tonsil stones. When stones form, you can remove them either by gently pressing them out with a cotton swab or the back of your tooth brush, or by washing them out with a low-pressure water irrigator.
You can use this device to aim a gentle stream of water at the tonsil craters and rinse out debris that may be caught in them. You can help prevent tonsil stones from forming in the first place by following good oral hygiene. Over time, the bacteria calcifies from a soft, gel-like state to a hardened particle — a tonsil stone.
Tonsil stones appear most often in people between the ages of 20 and The symptoms of tonsil stones can depend on how large they are. Sometimes you may experience no symptoms at all. The most commonly experienced symptom is bad breath, also known as halitosis. Research published in the British Dental Journal found that people with tonsil stones were 10 times more likely to exhibit bad breath.
Johnson, who adds that they can generally be prevented by flossing and brushing the teeth and tongue after every meal. For people who have had tonsil stones in the past, gargling with an oral rinse at least once a day may reduce the chance of developing additional stones. Only a doctor can determine if you need a tonsillectomy or other treatment for chronic tonsil stones. Talk to your health care provider if you experience severe or prolonged symptoms. Balaji Babu B. Christopher Y.
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