Health: Tonsils can also have stones; if you are seeing these symptoms, be alert

Doctors believe that this is a common problem and can happen to anyone. Studies show that 60% of people have this problem at some point or the other. Let’s know how it happens and what are the ways to avoid it.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal
Updated : 7 August 2025, 1:04 PM IST
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New Delhi: Usually people talk about kidney or gall bladder stones and are more cautious about them. But do you know that tonsils can also have stones, which are called tonsilloliths.

Doctors believe that this is a common problem and can happen to anyone. Studies show that 60% of people have this problem at some point or the other. Let's know how it happens and what are the ways to avoid it.

What are tonsil stones?

Small yellow or white deposits form in the tonsils. This can happen due to bacteria, saliva, food particles and pieces getting trapped on the cells lining the crypt of the mouth. They can be so small in size that they cannot be seen with the naked eye or they can be slightly larger.

Usually these stones are soft, but sometimes they can be as hard as stones. Tonsil stones can last from a few days to a few weeks.

  • These are the symptoms
  • Sore throat or feeling that something is stuck in the throat
  • Bad breath
  • Cough
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Throat infection
  • Who suffers from this problem
  • If the surface of someone's tonsils is rough instead of smooth.
  • Has a habit of smoking.
  • Drinks sugary drinks a lot.

There is a history of tonsil stones in the family.
This is how treatment is done
If someone is not seeing any symptoms due to tonsil stones, then they do not need treatment, but if someone is facing problems then these measures can be taken:
Gargling with salt water or removing it with the help of cotton wool or water flosser can help.
Do not try to remove tonsil stones with sharp objects like toothpick or pen, this can damage the throat or tonsils.
If your tonsils are swollen or infected, then the doctor can give you antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medicines.
This way you can stay safe from the risk of tonsil stones
Clean your teeth and tongue regularly.
Floss daily.
Gargle with salt water after meals.
Avoid eating and drinking things with high sugar content, this can reduce the risk of bacteria in the mouth and can help prevent the formation of stones.
Do not smoke, as this can make swollen tonsils feel even more uncomfortable. It can also increase the risk of stone formation.

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 7 August 2025, 1:04 PM IST