Bad Breath from Tonsil Stones

Tonsils are gland-like structures located in pockets on each side at the back of the throat. They are made up of tissues that contain lymphocytes for preventing and combating infections in the body.

Tonsils filter and trap the bacteria and viruses that enter the mouth. They play a vital role in maintaining the immune system of the body by producing white blood cells and antibodies.

Tonsil stones are formed when food particles, dead cells and other substances calcify in the tonsils and harden leading to debris formation. Usually, these stones are harmless and invisible to the naked eye. However, there are instances where they can cause noticeable symptoms. A very bad smell along with bad breath can occur due to the presence of anaerobic bacteria which produce foul-smelling sulphides. Other symptoms include irritation of the throat, a sensation of blockage in the throat creating difficulties in swallowing, pressure in the ears and formation of a whitish node on the throat.

The occurrence of bad breath and throat irritation can also indicate tonsil infections or tonsillitis. This may be severe enough to cause the passage of airways. But tonsillitis is also accompanied by other signs as detailed below.

Symptoms of Tonsillitis

• Sore throat
• Redness and inflammation of tonsils
• Trouble in swallowing
• Fever accompanied by chills
• Headache
• Swollen glands in the neck region
• Formation of yellow or white colour coating on the tonsils
• Occurrence of painful blisters and ulcers in the throat
• Difficulty in breathing through the mouth
• Pain in the ears
• Stiffness in the neck
• Hoarseness in the voice
• Tenderness in the neck or jaw region due to swelling of the lymph nodes

Causes of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is typically caused by bacteria and viruses:

Viral cause - Tonsillitis is usually caused by viral infections. The types of viruses which cause tonsil infection are

• Adenovirus which results in common cold and sore throat
• Rhinovirus which causes common cold
• Influenza or flu virus
• Respiratory syncytial virus which is the basis of acute respiratory tract infections
• Coronavirus which infects humans and causes severe infection of the respiratory tract (SARS)

Bacterial cause - Tonsillitis is normally caused by the Streptoccocal bacteria which results in strep throat. But, less frequently, it may also be caused by other bacterial species including

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Mycoplasma pneumonia
• Chlamydia pneumonia
• Bordetella pertussis
• Fusobacterium
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Treatment for Tonsillitis

Mild cases of tonsillitis do not require any treatment especially if it is caused by viruses. However, the following treatment approaches may be adopted if there are severe symptoms:

• Medication - Over-the counter painkiller medications are usually taken to ease the symptoms of tonsillitis. Doctors prescribe antibiotics if it is caused by bacterial infections. Patients must ensure that they take the full course of drugs to avoid further complications like rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation due to spreading of the persisting infection.
• Surgery - This approach is recommended for chronic cases wherein patients suffer from more than three episodes of tonsillitis for three consecutive years. Tonsillectomy is a surgical approach used to remove the tonsil stones or infected tonsils. It may be done by a variety of methods using laser, radio waves or ultrasonic energy. This surgery may also be necessary if tonsillitis causes serious problems like obstructive sleep apnea, abscess in the throat or breathing difficulties.

Home Remedies - Some simple tactics which can reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis are:

• Drinking plenty of fluids to remain hydrated
• Taking sufficient rest to fight the infection
• Doing gargling with warm water and salt
• Sucking throat lozenges
• Using air humidifiers or steaming
• Avoiding irritants like smoke and tobacco

It is important to take appropriate and timely treatment for tonsillitis and tonsil stones.

For more information, please contact this ENT hospital in Coimbatore

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