Many times when those little white or yellow stinky balls came out of my throat, I wondered if tonsil stones can lead to cancer or if it is a symptom of another disease. For a long time I thought this was the case and even worried. I have since learned that many people have had the same question in mind.
Although it took me a while to understand what those little balls were, I finally learned that there was nothing to worry about. Well, if it’s not something as serious as cancer or another disease, what is it? What causes these weird and often gross things? The answer is much simpler than you think.
Tonsil stones are called tonsilloliths in medical terms. Often times, doctors don’t even understand tonsilloliths and they are misdiagnosed. They grow on or behind the tonsils in crypts or scars left by pus. Pus is often seen during an episode of strep throat or tonsillitis. These scars are the breeding ground for tonsilloliths.
Tonsilloliths are formed by a combination of factors. Tonsilloliths are made up of dead white blood cells, oral bacteria, overactive salivary glands, mucous secretions, and enzymes in retained food. This combination causes its horrible smell.
As you can see, this is not a sign of something serious like cancer. The cause is much simpler and not as complex as many of us think. The only problem it causes is discomfort and bad breath. The good news is that the cure and treatment of tonsilloliths is easy and can be done at home.