Persistent Tonsil Stones Following Mystery Illness
I'm a 21-year-old female assigned female at birth, leading a fairly healthy life apart from ongoing issues with migraines and asthma. My last serious illness was back in November 2025; even COVID-19 merely posed a mild challenge for me. However, a few months ago, shortly after Halloween—where I confess I was quite intoxicated and exposed to various college ailments—I fell seriously ill. My tonsils became extremely swollen, displaying white patches that concerned me. At one point, when I gently scraped off some of the material, the swab emitted a foul odor and contained traces of blood. Swallowing became nearly impossible, forcing me to lean over the bed to allow saliva to drip onto a towel below. The pain was genuinely among the worst I've ever faced. Dehydration became a major concern, leading me to visit urgent care on two occasions. They conducted tests for streptococcus, COVID-19, RSV, and influenza, while my primary care physician performed blood tests for mononucleosis. All results returned negative. During the peak of my illness, I recorded a temperature of 103.6 degrees Fahrenheit and experienced hallucinations before drifting off to sleep. Fortunately, this high fever subsided fairly quickly with Tylenol, which helped to manage the fever down to a range between 100 and 101 for three days before it finally broke. Although I dealt with a lingering sore throat for two weeks afterward, it had transformed into a mere dull ache. Historically, I have never battled strep throat or influenza, resulting in my tonsils rarely being a concern. I have occasionally suffered from tonsil stones, but since this illness, the issue has escalated dramatically. My tonsils now appear uneven and lumpy, with noticeable deep pockets on the right side—the area from which I experienced the most pain. The stones have become a constant nuisance as I frequently taste them, and they create discomfort until I manage to dislodge them through coughing. I'm uncertain why this sudden change has occurred or what solutions are available to me. I maintain good dental hygiene by brushing my teeth twice a day and flossing regularly. I’ve attempted to use saltwater gargles, but they simply cause burning without providing any preventive benefits. Can anyone offer assistance or advice? What is causing this problem, and how can I address it effectively?
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 8:01:06 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been through a challenging experience, and dealing with persistent tonsil stones after such a significant illness can be frustrating. Let's break down your concerns and explore effective steps you can take.
Summary of Main Points:
- Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) can worsen after infections.
- Possible causes include changes in tonsil structure after your illness.
- Effective self-care measures can help reduce discomfort.
Explanation:
Following your severe illness, it’s possible that the structure of your tonsils changed, leading to more pockets where debris can collect, creating tonsil stones. These stones can form from food particles, dead cells, and bacteria, which may cause the foul odor and discomfort you mentioned. Since you’ve experienced swelling and irritation, these pockets may no longer function normally, resulting in this ongoing issue.
Next Steps:
Here are prioritized steps you can take to manage and potentially reduce the occurrence of tonsil stones:
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Hydration:
- Drink plenty of water daily. Staying hydrated can help ensure that your saliva flow is optimal, which may help reduce the buildup of debris.
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Gargling:
- Instead of saltwater, try using a non-alcoholic mouthwash or a diluted mixture of warm water and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide (1:1 ratio). This may help cleanse your tonsils without causing irritation.
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Oral Hygiene:
- Continue with your standard dental care. Consider adding a soft bristle toothbrush to gently brush the back of your tongue and the areas around your tonsils. Some people also find using a cotton swab or toothbrush to gently dislodge tonsil stones useful—but do this carefully to avoid injury.
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Dietary Adjustments:
- Focus on a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods rich in fiber can help keep your throat clean and may reduce occurrences of stones.
- Try to avoid processed foods high in sugars, which can contribute to bacterial growth.
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Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep track of when your stones appear and any associated symptoms. If you notice a consistent pattern, it may provide clues for further treatment options.
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Considerations for Further Action:
- If the tonsil stones continue to be bothersome or if you notice changes like increased pain, difficulty swallowing, or persistent bad breath, consider discussing with a healthcare provider about the possibility of other treatments (like tonsillectomy) or more in-depth evaluations.
It’s important to be patient as you try these methods. Sometimes, improvements take time, but consistent self-care can help alleviate your concerns. If you have further questions or need more assistance, feel free to ask.
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