Tonsil stones form when material in tonsil crypts hardens and may cause bad breath or a foreign-body sensation. Without symptoms, treatment may be unnecessary.
Oral hygiene and safe gargling are initial options. Sharp tools or high-pressure water may cause bleeding and injury. Persistent symptoms warrant assessment for removal or other options. Cryptolysis and tonsillectomy are not standard for everyone; pain, bleeding, recurrence and evidence limitations need discussion. One-sided enlargement, severe pain or swallowing difficulty should not be dismissed as a stone.
Assessment covers the mouth, throat and neck; endoscopy or tests are selected when needed. Antibiotics, acid-suppressing medicines and surgery require an appropriate diagnosis. Avoiding smoke and maintaining suitable hydration may reduce irritation.
Difficulty breathing or inability to swallow saliva is an emergency. Persistent one-sided pain, a neck lump, voice changes or unexplained weight loss should be assessed promptly.
This information does not replace an individual consultation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on a medical assessment.
Consultation and treatment