Palatine Tonsils & Tonsilloliths

Adults who did not undergo tonsillectomies (removal of the palatine tonsils) may find themselves coughing up tonsilloliths. Tonsil stones, as they are also known, are small and smelly white balls of bacteria.

Formation

• The palatine tonsils are designed to trap bacteria and prevent infection. Tonsilloliths form when bacteria becomes trapped and hardens.

Symptoms

• Tonsilloliths are most often noticed after they are unintentionally dislodged from the throat by coughing. However, an irritation that feels like a sore throat may indicate the presence of a tonsil stone. Because tonsilloliths are composed of bacteria, bad breath may also suggest their presence.

Prevention/Solution

• Though tonsil stones usually clear up on their own, they can be treated in a number of ways. Gargling with mouthwash or saltwater can help to loosen the stones, as can shooting the tonsils with a water pick or poking them with a damp cotton swab. Surgical removal of the tonsils will prevent further formation of tonsilloliths.