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Why do people develop
tonsil stones?
Tonsil
stones are small, whitish lumps located on the palatine tonsils at the back of
your mouth. Each tonsil is positioned on either side of your tongue.
When
the tonsils experience the accumulation of food particles, dead cells,
bacteria, viruses, or postnasal mucus, these substances can become lodged,
decay, and harden inside the tonsillar crypts.
Although
tonsil stones can often be misdiagnosed as a throat infection, they commonly
affect many people. Approximately 30,000 individuals suffer from chronic tonsil
stones in the United States.
People
who have experienced tonsillitis have a greater risk of developing tonsil
stones, as chronic inflammation can scar the tonsils and impair their defensive
function.
The
tonsils are small, spherical balls made up of lymphatic tissue and covered by
mucosa. Long channels called tonsillar crypts run through the mucosal covering
of each tonsil.
Tonsil stones
occur when lumps of hardened food debris, mucus, and microorganisms become
trapped in the tonsillar crypts. Once these trapped substances combine with
saliva and its digestive enzymes, the food particles begin to break down,
leaving hardened remains in the tonsillar crypts.
Sensing
the accumulation of foreign material, the body sends white blood cells to
attack this debris, which leaves the tonsillar crypts full of hardened remains
and cellular pieces.
These
hardened, stone-like masses of waste and debris can increase in size, which may
lead to symptoms such as a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, bad breath, and earaches.
Who are the people
that are likely to develop tonsil stones?
Individuals
with larger tonsils and deep crypts often have tonsil-stone formation.
Adults
are usually more at risk for developing tonsil stones at the opening of the
throat and airway, as they have bigger tonsils and large tonsillar crypts,
which makes them more likely to harbor unpleasant debris.
However,
teens and children can also suffer from tonsil stones, as they may also possess
larger tonsils and tonsillar crypts, dependent on the size of their tonsils
based on their stage of development.
Although
large, fully solidified tonsil stones are rare, it is important to contact your healthcare provider to
determine the best way of treating your symptoms and to prevent future
complications.
What can you do if
you develop tonsil stones?
If
you observe small, white masses on the back of your throat or have swollen
tonsils, or suspect you may develop tonsil stones, see your doctor for a physical examination. Based on the
results of this examination, he or she may recommend that you visit an ear,
nose, and throat specialist for further treatment.
This article is based
on the book, “Tonsil Stones Remedy Forever” by Alison White, an ex-sufferer of
tonsilloliths, also known as tonsil stones.
Tonsil Stones Remedy
Forever is a guidebook that teaches you everything you need to know to get rid
of painful, pesky and inconvenient tonsil stones without surgery.
This is a 7-day
schedule to get rid of tonsil stones using natural remedies that are tried,
tested and proven to work. If you are ready to take control of your health and
to make the right decision regarding your tonsil stones, then click on Tonsil Stones Remedy Forever.
