Black Spot Observed on Tonsil
A 29-year-old female currently taking Lexapro and semaglutide has noticed a small black dot on her tonsil. This individual frequently inspects her tonsils due to recurring tonsil stones. The black spot is persistent and does not come off when she attempts to clean it with a cotton swab. Additionally, she has previously consulted a physician about another spot on her tonsil, marked in red. The doctor suggested it might be a ruptured blood vessel, although there are concerns since this spot appears to be enlarging. Furthermore, she underwent an oral cancer screening within the past year, which returned normal results.
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 2:50:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
Noticing a persistent black spot on your tonsil can understandably cause concern. Since you have a history of tonsil stones and have previously seen a doctor for a different spot, it's essential to monitor the changes in these areas carefully. The black spot could be due to various reasons, including an infection, irritation, or in rare cases, a more serious condition.
Explanation
You mentioned that the black spot is persistent and does not come off with cleaning, which might suggest it is not simply debris or a transient issue. Additionally, the enlargement of the previous red spot is noteworthy. Regularly inspecting your tonsils, especially given your history of tonsil stones, is common, but it's crucial to differentiate benign conditions from potentially concerning changes.
Next Steps
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Monitor the Spot: Keep an eye on the black spot and any changes in size, shape, or color. Note any additional symptoms you may experience, such as pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing.
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Oral Hygiene: Continue maintaining good oral hygiene to help reduce any irritation or infection risk. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water—this can soothe your throat and help with any possible inflammation.
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Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of irritants, such as smoking or strong beverages, which could exacerbate throat issues.
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Schedule Follow-Up: Given your previous concerns and the changes in both spots, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider. Discuss the persistence and enlargement of these spots for a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious conditions, especially since you had a normal oral cancer screening within the last year.
Your focus on your health is important, and it’s wise to take note of any changes. Please do not hesitate to get further assessments done if the appearance of the spots continues to shift or if you develop any new symptoms.
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