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Definition

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils. (See also sore throat.)

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The tonsils are lymph nodes in the back of the mouth and top of the throat. They normally help to filter out bacteria and other microorganisms to prevent infection in the body.

They may become so overwhelmed by bacterial or viral infection that they swell and become inflamed, causing tonsillitis. The infection may also be present in the throat and surrounding areas, causing pharyngitis.

Tonsillitis is extremely common, particularly in children.

Symptoms

* Sore throat

o Persisting longer than 48 hours

o Possibly severe

* Difficulty swallowing

* Headache

* Fever, chills

* Tenderness of the jaw and throat

* Voice changes, loss of voice

Signs and tests

The health care provider will look in the mouth and throat for enlarged, visible tonsils. They are usually reddened and may have white spots on them. The lymph nodes of the jaw and neck may be enlarged and tender to the touch.

A culture of the tonsils may show bacterial infection. A culture for the streptococcus bacteria (strep) may be taken because it is the most common and most dangerous form of tonsillitis. A rapid strep test may also be performed by your physician by taking a throat swab for a quick diagnosis.

Treatment

If the cause of the tonsillitis is bacteria such as strep, antibiotics are given to cure the infection. The antibiotics may be given as a one-time injection, or by a 10-day course of antibiotic pills.

If antibiotic pills are used, they must be taken for the full course. They must not be stopped just because the discomfort stops, or the infection will NOT be cured. Some health care providers will treat all tonsillitis with antibiotics to prevent the chance of strep-related complications. Others treat only known bacterial and strep infections to minimize the chance of reaction to the antibiotic.

Rest to allow the body to heal. Fluids, especially warm (not hot), bland fluids or very cold fluids may soothe the throat. Gargle with warm salt water or suck on lozenges (containing benzocaine or similar ingredients) to reduce pain.

Over-the-counter medications may be used to reduce pain and fever. Do NOT use aspirin in children if the infection could be viral, because this may be associated with Reye's syndrome.

Surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be necessary for some people.

Expectations (prognosis)

Tonsillitis symptoms usually lessen in 2 or 3 days after treatment starts. The infection usually is cured by then, but may require more than one course of antibiotics. Complications of untreated strep tonsillitis may be severe. A tonsillectomy may be recommended if tonsillitis is severe, comes back, or does not respond to antibiotics.

Complications

* Pharyngitis - bacterial

* Pharyngitis - viral

* Dehydration from difficulty swallowing fluids

* Blocked airway from enlarged tonsils

* Peritonsillar abscess or abscess in other parts of the throat

* Rheumatic fever and subsequent cardiovascular disorders

* Kidney failure

* Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis

Hope this helps, F.E

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14y ago
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9y ago

Tonsillitis are tonsil stones. If a person has slightly large tonsils, food can become trapped in the grooves of the tonsil. The food will harden into a stone, and will stay in the tonsil until it is dislodged.

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an infection of an organ called tonsils near the larynx.

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Q: What are tonsilloliths?
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What are the white chunks I cough up?

The little white particles that you are coughing up are called tonsilloliths and except for their bad smell are not a condition to be worried about. Tonsilloliths form when mucus, bacteria, and debris condense into small particles on the surface of the tonsils. These odorous balls of material are sometimes coughed up. Having tonsilloliths does not automatically mean that your breath is offensive as tonsilloliths contribute very little to bad breath. Additional information - I get these 2-3 times a year now for 22 years. My "chunks" are slightly larger than a pea and seem to come from deep in the chest after an extensive coughing spell (with awful breath and a low grade fever). One I coughed up was an off white color and unusually large so I chose to section it on a piece of glass. I found a core in the middle of a soft white folded coating. The odor was absolutely unbearable cutting into the chunk. My thought was perhaps I was inhaling small pieces of nuts into my lungs where the body formed the mass to get them out by coughing so I quit eating nuts but they persisted. You can definitely tell from the awful smell that one is "growing" and that smell goes away after it has been expelled, often at high velocity Years ago, I asked my MD about them and she gets them too but had no idea what they were. Its nice to know I'm not the only one with this and it has a name.


What are the little things that drop out of your sinuses into your mouth that look like week old cottage cheese and smell worse?

This commonly called "tonsilloliths" or "tonsil stones" check out google or wikipedia for more information. LIKE CRAPPPPP HEHE i like cheese rember tony the tiger (its great!!!!!!!!!!!)


How are tonsil rocks formed?

Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are caused by an accumulation of sulfur-producing bacteria and debris that become lodged in the tonsils. The debris, which can include mucus from post nasal drip, putrifies in the back of your throat and collects in the tonsil crypts (small pockets which appear on the surface of the tonsils).


What is the yellow greenish smelly ball people cough up?

The little white particles that you are coughing up are called tonsilloliths and except for their bad smell are not a condition to be worried about. Tonsilloliths form when mucus, bacteria, and debris condense into small particles on the surface of the tonsils. These odorous balls of material are sometimes coughed up. Having tonsilloliths does not automatically mean that your breath is offensive as tonsilloliths contribute very little to bad breath. Additional information - I get these 2-3 times a year now for 22 years. My "chunks" are slightly larger than a pea and seem to come from deep in the chest after an extensive coughing spell (with awful breath and a low grade fever). One I coughed up was an off white color and unusually large so I chose to section it on a piece of glass. I found a core in the middle of a soft white folded coating. The odor was absolutely unbearable cutting into the chunk. My thought was perhaps I was inhaling small pieces of nuts into my lungs where the body formed the mass to get them out by coughing so I quit eating nuts but they persisted. You can definitely tell from the awful smell that one is "growing" and that smell goes away after it has been expelled, often at high velocity Years ago, I asked my MD about them and she gets them too but had no idea what they were. Its nice to know I'm not the only one with this and it has a name.


What causes white chunks in tonsils?

These are called tonsilloliths (or tonsilliths, as I so affectionately nicknamed them). They are the result of bacteria and food particles that get stuck in the pockets of your tonsils. This condition is totally harmless and commonly occurs in children and young adults, but also in adults. The only real cure is to have your tonsils removed, but this is costly, often unnecessary and can be a threat to your health, since your tonsils help to guard the body against bacteria. They stink. But you can live with it. I just push them out with my finger or the blunt end of my toothbrush. Here is the best medical/scientific explanation I've found: "What are tonsil stones? The tonsils usually appear like small, dimpled golf balls set on either side of the back of the throat. Children with large tonsils and deep crypts often get food particles trapped in there. Because saliva contains digestive enzymes, trapped food begins to break down. Particularly, the starch or carbohydrate part of the food melts away, leaving firmer, harder remains of food in the tonsils. This does not look like the food that went into the mouth. There is more to these hard lumps than just food. The tonsils also trap other mouth debris such as bacteria and old cells from the surface of the mouth's lining. Some of these cells contain small amounts of keratin, the same substance found in fingernails and rhinoceros horns. Whatever the nature of the debris, it is then attacked by white blood cells. The aftermath of this battle leaves the crevices of the tonsil strewn with hardened remains. Most people swallow this material without ever noticing it, while it is still tiny. In those whose tonsils are large, however, the particles can lodge in the deep crypts, where they continue to grow. The enlarging lumps are called calculi of the tonsil, or tonsilloliths (tonsil stones). These stones are most common during adolescence. Microscopic studies of these tonsilloliths have shown them to contain a combination of food particles, bacteria, oral debris, and white blood cells in a concentrically laminated pattern -- rather like a pearl. Usually they are small gritty particles found in the center of soft, cheesy flecks. Sometimes, however, they become quite large, appearing as rough, yellow or gray, round stones. At times they reach an extraordinary size. Affected people usually have a history of repeated attacks of tonsillitis in earlier years. Alan Greene MD FAAP


What is the name of the stinky white things you cough up sometimes from your throat?

A tonsillolith (also called tonsil stone or calculus of the tonsil) is a piece (or more commonly, a cluster) of calcareous matter which forms in the rear of the mouth, in the crevasses (called crypts) of the palatine tonsils (which are what most people commonly refer to as simply tonsils). Tonsil stones, it is theorized, are the result of a combination of any of the following[1]: * food particles * dead white blood cells (a.k.a. leukocytes) * oral bacteria, possibly from mouth breathing * overactive salivary glands They are described as having a pungent odor[2]: halitosis concentrated into a small solid object. Visually, they may resemble sesame seeds or cottage cheese in color and texture. Protruding tonsilloliths have the feel of a foreign object, lodged between the outside of wisdom teeth and the temporomandibular joint region of the fleshed jaw. They may be an especially uncomfortable nuisance, but are not often harmful.


Why would someone need Tonsillectomy?

Well, when people have tonsilits, and tend to get sick off of tonsils, they get their tonsils removed. The surgery is quick and painless, (because you will be under anesthesia!), and only takes about 20-30 minutes! The aftermath is pretty painful ( because i had mine done), and takes about a month or 4 weeks to recover!


What is a cryptic tonsil?

Cryptic Tonsillitis is...Tonsils contain many crevices called "crypts". In some patients, these crevices become full of white debris that has a foul odor; this debris is made up of bacteria, food particles, dried mucus and dead white cells. The debris is referred to as tonsil stones or "tonsillolith". Occasionally in some people a low-grade sore throat will accompany the presence of tonsillolith.Cryptic tonsillitis will come and go, although the removal of the tonsillolith will improve the condition.Medications work only for a short period of time. The sole longterm cure for cryptic tonsillitis is a tonsillectomy.


What are white patches in the back of the throat?

It could be "thrush"- a yeast infection in your mouth. Or it could be tonsilloliths. Tonsilloliths or "tonsil stones" are little white or yellow balls of built up food, dead white blood cells and other particles in your mouth. Ask yourself this: - Do you have a sore throat that accompanies the white spots on your throat? - Do you have trouble swallowing or does it feel like something is stuck on the back of your throat? - And, do you have really bad breath? If you have answered Yes to any of the above, then those white spots on your throat are most likely tonsil stones. Tonsil stones occur in some people and not in others. Experts suggest that overactive salivary glands, an excess of oral bacteria, larger tonsils and bigger tonsil crypts, or crevices, all play a factor in tonsil stones. Tonsil stones are not life threatening or even dangerous. They are just annoying as they can be irritable and also cause embarrassment. They have quite a strong unpleasant odour caused by the build-up of bacteria. Tonsil stones, similar to tarter, will continue to grow and harden with time. While some tonsil stones are only the size of a pea, others can grow as big as a marble. Removing tonsil stones can be quite difficult. Some people simply sneeze or flex their throat and these white spots will remove themselves. Others have to use a toothbrush, a Q-tip or their finger to scrape at the tonsil stones. Others opt to have their tonsils surgically removed or lasered if the problem becomes too much.


What are tonsil stones, and what are the common symptoms and treatment options for this condition?

Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are small, hard deposits that form in the crevices of the tonsils. These formations are typically composed of calcified debris, including dead cells, mucus, and food particles that get trapped in the tonsil crypts. Common symptoms of tonsil stones may include: Bad breath (halitosis): Tonsil stones often emit a foul odor, leading to persistent bad breath that may not be alleviated by regular oral hygiene practices. Sore throat: Some individuals with tonsil stones may experience discomfort or irritation in the throat, particularly when swallowing. White or yellowish deposits: Tonsil stones may be visible as small white or yellowish formations lodged in the tonsil crypts. Swollen tonsils: In some cases, tonsil stones can cause mild inflammation or enlargement of the tonsils. Treatment options for tonsil stones include: Self-care measures: Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and gargling with saltwater, can help reduce the formation of tonsil stones. Manual removal: Small tonsil stones can often be dislodged or removed at home using gentle pressure or a cotton swab. However, caution should be exercised to avoid injuring the tonsils. Saltwater gargles: Gargling with warm saltwater can help reduce inflammation, alleviate discomfort, and dislodge small tonsil stones. Water irrigation: Using a water flosser or oral irrigator, directed at the tonsils, can help flush out debris and prevent the accumulation of tonsil stones. Antibiotics: In cases where tonsil stones are associated with infection or recurrent tonsillitis, a healthcare professional may prescribe antibiotics to address the underlying bacterial infection. Tonsillectomy: For individuals with severe and recurrent tonsil stones or underlying chronic tonsillitis, a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be recommended. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. They can provide further guidance and recommendations based on the severity and frequency of your tonsil stone symptoms. Visit - Secondmedic


Why would tonsils be removed?

Being part of the Lymphatic System which fights infections, the Tonsils can become infected themselves. In some cases the infection is so great that thje only course of action is to have them removed.


Seeking Insights: What are the underlying factors that contribute to the development of tonsil stones, and what are the most effective approaches for their removal and treatment?

Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are small calcified masses that form in the tonsil crevices. Understanding the underlying factors that contribute to their development and knowing the most effective approaches for their removal and treatment can help manage this condition. Let's explore further: Underlying Factors of Tonsil Stone Development: Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate oral hygiene allows bacteria, food particles, and debris to accumulate in the mouth, leading to the formation of tonsil stones. Chronic Tonsillitis: Persistent inflammation or infection of the tonsils can create an environment conducive to tonsil stone formation due to the presence of bacteria and mucus. Cryptic Tonsils: Some individuals naturally have tonsils with deep pockets or crevices. These cryptic tonsils can trap bacteria, dead cells, and debris, promoting the formation of tonsil stones. Postnasal Drip: Excessive mucus production caused by conditions like sinusitis or allergies can drip down the back of the throat, accumulating in the tonsils and contributing to tonsil stone development. Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production can result in dry mouth, enabling bacteria and debris to accumulate in the tonsils, leading to the formation of tonsil stones. Approaches for Removal and Treatment: Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping, can help prevent tonsil stone formation. Gargling with Saltwater: Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater helps reduce inflammation, soothes the tonsils, and dislodges tonsil stones. Manual Removal: Gently applying pressure to the tonsils using a clean cotton swab or the back of a toothbrush can dislodge smaller tonsil stones. However, caution must be exercised to avoid triggering the gag reflex. Oral Irrigation: Using an oral irrigator or a water flosser on a low-pressure setting can effectively flush out tonsil stones from the tonsil crevices. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the neck can help relax the throat muscles, reduce inflammation, and facilitate the release of tonsil stones. Professional Intervention: If self-care methods prove ineffective or if tonsil stones recur frequently, seeking medical assistance from an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) is recommended. The ENT specialist may suggest advanced treatments like laser resurfacing or in severe cases, recommend a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils). Remember, prevention is key. Maintaining good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and addressing any underlying conditions like chronic tonsillitis or postnasal drip can help reduce the likelihood of tonsil stone formation. If you experience persistent symptoms or have concerns, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and guide you toward the most suitable treatment options for your situation. Visit - Secondmedic