Concern About White Spots
Hello everyone! I hope you don’t mind me reaching out with a question that might sound a bit silly. I’m a 16-year-old non-binary individual, and I’ve noticed some changes in my mouth that have me worried. Specifically, one side seems swollen and larger than the other, and I’ve spotted some white patches. The other side also has similar white patches, though they’re much smaller and less pronounced. To be honest, I’m not very familiar with tonsil stones and haven’t experienced them before. I attempted to seek advice on a different Reddit thread, but my post was removed. Some users suggested that my symptoms could indeed be related to tonsil stones, but I’d appreciate any additional insights. If these white spots do turn out to be tonsil stones, could anyone share effective methods for managing them that do not involve surgical options? I’ve heard recommendations like gargling with salt water and increasing the frequency of mouthwash use or brushing my teeth. I’m eager to hear what others think!
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 11:50:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel worried about changes in your mouth, especially when noticing swelling and white patches. These symptoms could potentially relate to several issues, including tonsil stones, oral infections, or even other conditions affecting the tonsils or throat.
What's Happening:
- White patches in the mouth can be caused by several factors: tonsil stones (which are deposits of debris that can form in the tonsils), infections (like strep throat or oral thrush), or other benign oral issues.
- Swelling on one side may indicate inflammation or an infection. It's essential to observe these symptoms carefully, especially if there's discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or persistent changes.
Next Steps:
-
Maintain Oral Hygiene:
- Gargle with warm salt water several times a day to help reduce inflammation and clear out any debris. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Brush your teeth and tongue regularly, and consider using a soft toothbrush to avoid irritation.
-
Increase Hydration:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This can help in keeping your mouth moist and washing away food particles and bacteria.
-
Over-the-Counter Mouth Rinses:
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and reduce bacteria. Look for options that mention soothing properties or plaque control.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on the size and appearance of the white patches and swelling. If they worsen or other symptoms like fever, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing occur, it might be best to seek medical advice.
While tonsil stones can often be managed at home, the priority is to ensure that you are comfortable and that any potential infections are addressed. If your symptoms persist despite these measures or become more concerning, reaching out to a healthcare provider would be a wise next step. You're taking the right approach by seeking information and exploring options! Let me know if there's anything more you would like to learn.
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