What are tonsil stones and how do they form. How can you identify tonsil stones in your mouth. What symptoms might indicate the presence of tonsil stones. Are tonsil stones dangerous or just a nuisance. What are the most effective ways to treat and prevent tonsil stones.

Understanding Tonsil Stones: Formation and Characteristics

Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths or tonsil calculi, are hard formations that develop in the crevices of the tonsils. These small, often white or yellowish masses form when debris such as food particles, dead cells, and other substances become trapped in the tonsils and harden over time.

What exactly are tonsils and what is their role in our body? The tonsils are two small mounds of tissue located at the back of the throat, one on each side. They play a crucial role in our immune system by trapping bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders that enter through the mouth. This process helps “teach” the immune system how to fight these germs effectively.

Characteristics of Tonsil Stones

• Appearance: White or yellowish hard masses
• Size: Can range from very small to very large
• Composition: Debris, bacteria, and calcified material
• Location: Found in the crevices of the tonsils

Did you know that the largest recorded tonsillolith measured an astonishing 14.5 centimeters? This remarkable case was documented in 1936, highlighting the potential for these formations to grow to significant sizes in extreme cases.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

How can you tell if you have tonsil stones? While some people with tonsil stones may not experience any symptoms, others might notice several telltale signs. Recognizing these symptoms can help you identify whether you might be dealing with tonsil stones.

Common Symptoms of Tonsil Stones

1. Bad breath (halitosis): Tonsil stones can produce a very unpleasant odor due to the anaerobic bacteria they harbor.
2. Foreign body sensation: You might feel like something is stuck in your throat or at the back of your mouth.
3. Ear discomfort: Some people experience pressure or pain in their ears.
4. Visible stones: In some cases, you may be able to see small white or yellow flecks at the back of your throat.

Why do tonsil stones cause such bad breath? The anaerobic bacteria that thrive in tonsil stones produce sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the characteristic foul smell. This odor can be particularly noticeable when the stones become dislodged or are removed.

The Link Between Oral Hygiene and Tonsil Stones

Is there a connection between poor oral hygiene and the development of tonsil stones? While tonsil stones can occur in anyone with tonsils, there is evidence to suggest that inadequate oral care may increase the risk of their formation.

People who do not brush their teeth or floss regularly are more vulnerable to tonsil stones. The bacteria that cause tonsil stones can also contribute to other oral health issues, including:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Oral infections

What is the relationship between tonsil stones and dental plaque? Interestingly, research has shown that tonsil stones share similarities with dental plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and contributes to cavities and gum disease. This connection underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices to reduce the risk of both tonsil stones and other dental problems.

Diagnosing and Treating Tonsil Stones at Home

Can tonsil stones be treated at home? In many cases, yes. Tonsil stones often detach on their own during vigorous gargling or can be removed using simple at-home methods. However, it’s important to approach home treatment with caution to avoid injury to the throat or tonsils.

Safe Home Removal Techniques

1. Gargling with warm salt water: This can help dislodge smaller stones and provide some relief from discomfort.
2. Using a cotton swab: Gently press on the tissue surrounding the stone, pushing it forward towards the front of the mouth.
3. Oral irrigation: Using a water flosser or similar device can help flush out debris and stones from the tonsil crevices.

What precautions should you take when attempting to remove tonsil stones at home? It’s crucial to be gentle and avoid using sharp objects or your fingers to remove the stones. If you experience pain or difficulty swallowing, or if the stones are not visible but you suspect their presence, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Professional Medical Attention for Tonsil Stones

While many cases of tonsil stones can be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. But how do you know when it’s time to see a doctor?

Consider seeking medical help if:

• You have symptoms of tonsil stones, but no stones are visible
• Home removal attempts are unsuccessful or only partially effective
• Your tonsils appear red, swollen, or painful
• You experience pain after attempting to remove a tonsil stone at home

What treatments might a doctor recommend for persistent tonsil stones? Medical professionals have several options at their disposal for treating stubborn cases of tonsil stones:

1. Laser resurfacing: This procedure can help smooth out the surface of the tonsils, reducing the number of crevices where stones can form.
2. Coblation tonsil cryptolysis: This technique involves reshaping the tonsils to minimize stone formation. It can often be performed under local anesthesia, with patients typically able to resume normal activities after about a week.
3. Tonsillectomy: In severe or recurrent cases, surgical removal of the tonsils may be recommended as a last resort.

Long-term Prevention Strategies for Tonsil Stones

Is it possible to prevent tonsil stones from forming in the first place? While complete prevention may be challenging, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce your risk of developing tonsil stones or minimize their recurrence.

Effective Prevention Techniques

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing help remove debris that can contribute to stone formation.
• Use an oral irrigator: Flushing the tonsils with a gentle stream of water can help remove trapped debris before it hardens into stones.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleanses the mouth and tonsils.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can irritate the throat and increase the likelihood of tonsil stone formation.
• Consider gargling with salt water: Regular salt water gargles can help keep the tonsil area clean and reduce bacterial growth.

What role does diet play in tonsil stone prevention? While research is limited, some experts suggest that reducing consumption of dairy products and carbonated beverages may help decrease tonsil stone formation in some individuals. However, more studies are needed to confirm this connection.

Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Tonsillectomy for Tonsil Stones

For those suffering from chronic tonsil stones, the question often arises: Is a tonsillectomy worth considering? While removal of the tonsils is the only way to permanently prevent tonsil stones, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks associated with surgery.

Pros of Tonsillectomy for Tonsil Stones

• Permanent solution: Eliminates the possibility of future tonsil stone formation
• Resolves related issues: Can address chronic tonsillitis and other tonsil-related problems
• Improves quality of life: Eliminates discomfort and bad breath associated with tonsil stones

Cons and Risks of Tonsillectomy

• Surgical risks: As with any surgery, there are risks of bleeding, infection, and reaction to anesthesia
• Recovery period: Patients typically experience throat pain for several days post-surgery
• Potential complications: In rare cases, breathing difficulties due to swelling can occur

How do you decide if tonsillectomy is the right choice for you? This decision should be made in consultation with an ear, nose, and throat specialist who can assess your individual case. Factors to consider include the frequency and severity of your tonsil stones, the impact on your quality of life, and your overall health status.

Differentiating Tonsil Stones from Other Tonsil Conditions

While tonsil stones have distinct characteristics, it’s important to recognize that other conditions can cause similar symptoms or affect the tonsils. How can you tell if what you’re experiencing is truly a tonsil stone or something else entirely?

Common Conditions That May Mimic Tonsil Stones

1. Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections
2. Strep throat: A bacterial infection that can cause severe throat pain and swollen tonsils
3. Oral thrush: A fungal infection that can cause white patches in the mouth and throat
4. Tonsillar cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or near the tonsils

What are the key differences between tonsil stones and these other conditions? Unlike tonsil stones, conditions such as tonsillitis and strep throat often come with additional symptoms like fever, severe pain, and difficulty swallowing. Oral thrush typically presents as more widespread white patches that can be scraped off, unlike the hardened nature of tonsil stones.

When in doubt about the nature of your symptoms, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, order tests to determine the exact cause of your discomfort.

The Impact of Tonsil Stones on Overall Health and Well-being

While tonsil stones are generally considered more of a nuisance than a serious health threat, they can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. How do tonsil stones affect overall health and well-being?

Potential Health Impacts of Tonsil Stones

• Oral health: Tonsil stones can harbor bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease
• Respiratory health: In rare cases, large tonsil stones may interfere with breathing or swallowing
• Psychological well-being: Chronic bad breath caused by tonsil stones can lead to social anxiety and self-consciousness
• Sleep quality: Discomfort from tonsil stones may disrupt sleep patterns

Can tonsil stones lead to more serious complications? While rare, there have been cases where untreated tonsil stones have led to more significant issues. These can include:

• Peritonsillar abscess: A collection of pus near the tonsils that requires immediate medical attention
• Chronic tonsillitis: Repeated infections of the tonsils that may necessitate their removal
• Obstructive sleep apnea: In extreme cases, very large tonsil stones could potentially contribute to sleep-disordered breathing

How can you minimize the impact of tonsil stones on your daily life? Implementing good oral hygiene practices, staying vigilant about stone formation, and seeking prompt treatment when necessary can help manage the condition effectively. For those significantly affected by tonsil stones, discussing long-term management strategies or potential surgical options with a healthcare provider may be beneficial.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Tonsil Stone Management

As our understanding of tonsil stones continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. What are some of the latest developments in tonsil stone research?

Current Areas of Research

1. Microbial composition: Studies are investigating the specific types of bacteria present in tonsil stones to develop targeted treatments
2. Genetic factors: Research is exploring whether certain genetic predispositions may increase the likelihood of developing tonsil stones
3. Non-invasive removal techniques: Scientists are working on developing new tools and methods for removing tonsil stones without surgery
4. Preventive measures: Ongoing studies are assessing the effectiveness of various oral rinses and probiotics in preventing tonsil stone formation

What potential breakthroughs might we see in tonsil stone management in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict with certainty, some promising areas of development include:

• Advanced imaging techniques for early detection of stone formation
• Personalized treatment plans based on individual microbial profiles
• Novel medications or supplements designed to prevent stone formation
• Minimally invasive procedures that reshape the tonsils without full removal

How might these advancements change the way we approach tonsil stone management in the future? As research progresses, we may see a shift towards more preventive strategies and less invasive treatments, potentially reducing the need for surgical interventions like tonsillectomies. Additionally, improved understanding of the underlying causes of tonsil stones could lead to more effective and targeted therapies.

For those currently dealing with tonsil stones, staying informed about these developments and discussing new options with healthcare providers as they become available can help ensure access to the most up-to-date and effective treatments.

Tonsil stones: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Tonsil stones are formed when debris, such as food, dead cells, and other substances, become trapped on the tonsils.

The debris turns hard, forming tonsil stones. Sometimes called tonsil calculi or tonsilloliths, tonsil stones can sometimes irritate the tonsils and the throat.

They appear as a white or yellowish hard mass, ranging in size from very small to very large. The largest recorded tonsillolith, at 14.5 centimeters (cm) was recorded in 1936.

People with tonsil stones may not know what they are. Tonsil stones can become a home for bacteria and may have an unpleasant smell.

The tonsils are two small mounds of tissue that lie at the back of the throat, one on either side.

They help fight infections that enter through the mouth. They trap bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders and then “teach” the immune system how to fight these germs.

Tonsil stones develop when bacteria and other debris get trapped in tiny crevices on the tonsils.

Because tonsillectomies are less common now than they once were, more people have tonsils and therefore more people are vulnerable to tonsil stones.

Removing tonsils to prevent tonsillitis used to be a very common procedure.

Now tonsillectomies are considered a treatment of last resort.

Many people with tonsil stones have no symptoms.

If symptoms occur, they include:

• a very bad smell when the stones appear, because tonsil stones provide a home for anaerobic bacteria, which produce foul-smelling sulfides
• a sense that something is stuck in your mouth or in the back of your throat
• pressure or pain in your ears

Tonsil stones can look like small white or yellow flecks at the back of the throat. A large stone may be visible. Some are large enough that they jut out of the tonsils, resembling tiny rocks trapped in the mouth.

Tonsil stones are mostly harmless, even when they cause discomfort.

They may, however, signal problems with oral hygiene. People who do not brush their teeth or floss regularly are more vulnerable to tonsil stones. The bacteria that cause tonsil stones can also cause tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections.

Occasionally, tonsil stones can become a breeding ground for bacteria. One study has found that tonsil stones are similar to the dental plaque that causes cavities and gum disease.

Tonsil stones can usually be treated at home. They often detach during vigorous gargling.

However, if you see tonsil stones in the back of your throat but do not have any symptoms, you do not have to try to remove them.

People can use a cotton swab to loosen the stone and gently press on the tissue immediately surrounding it. They should position the swab behind the stone and push forward, pushing the tonsil stone toward the front of the mouth instead of into the throat.

Be careful not to push too hard, as you risk injuring the back of your throat. Do not use your finger or anything pointed or sharp to try to remove a tonsil stone.

If tonsil stones hurt or make it difficult to swallow, people can try gargling with warm salt water.

A doctor should be consulted if:

• a person has symptoms of tonsil stones, but no stones are visible
• removing the tonsil stones at home is not possible, or only a portion of the stone can be removed
• the tonsils are red, swollen, or painful
• pain is felt after removing a tonsil stone at home

The doctor may treat tonsil stones with laser resurfacing.

A process called coblation tonsil cryptolysis involves reshaping the tonsils and reducing the number of crevices in which tonsil stones can grow.

The procedure can be completed using a local anesthetic, and patients can resume a normal diet and activity after one week.

However, tonsil stones may grow back again.

The only way to permanently prevent tonsil stones is to have the tonsils removed via tonsillectomy. It is possible, although very rare, that the tonsils will grow back.

A tonsillectomy is safe, but it can cause throat pain for several days after surgery. Like all surgeries, tonsillectomy carries some risks.

These include bleeding, infection, swelling-related breathing difficulties, and, very rarely, life-threatening reactions to anesthesia.

If tonsil stones are only a minor irritation, the risks and stress of surgery might outweigh the benefits.

Preventing the growth of tonsil stones completely is almost impossible. For people who have chronic tonsillitis, a tonsillectomy may be the only way to prevent tonsil stones.

However, good oral hygiene, including frequent brushing and flossing, can help. Irrigating the tonsils and mouth with a water sprayer can remove debris and bacteria, reducing the risk of tonsil stones.

Other conditions affecting the tonsils

A number of other conditions can cause pain in or near the tonsils. A doctor can help determine what causes tonsil stones.

Other conditions that can mimic the symptoms of tonsil stones include:

• Tonsillitis: If the tonsils are red and swollen and it is difficult to swallow, there may be an infection in the tonsils. Tonsillitis is often accompanied by a fever.
• Strep throat: This is one type of tonsillitis that can cause intense pain in the throat or at the back of the mouth. Like tonsillitis, strep throat often causes a fever.
• Gum disease and tooth decay: Pain in the teeth and gums can radiate to the jaw, ear, or even the throat. Untreated infections in the teeth and gums can spread throughout the mouth, and even to other areas of the body.
• Tonsil cancer: Tonsil cancer, also known as tonsil lymphoma, can cause a sore in the back of the mouth that does not heal. Other symptoms include pain in the ears and throat, difficulty swallowing, and blood in the mouth.

An otolaryngologist, commonly known as an ear, nose, and throat doctor, can treat most tonsil and throat conditions.

Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What Are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are hard, sometimes painful bits of bacteria and debris that get stuck in nooks on your tonsils.

Your tonsils are gland-like structures in the back of your throat. You have one on each side. Tonsils are made of tissue with lymphocytes, cells that prevent and fight infections. Many experts think your tonsils play a role in your immune system and are meant to work like nets, trapping bacteria and viruses that come in through your throat.

But your tonsils don’t always do their job well. For some people, they’re more trouble than help. Research suggests that people who have their tonsils removed are no more likely to get bacterial or viral infections than people with who keep their tonsils.

Tonsil Stone Causes

Your tonsils are filled with nooks and crannies where bacteria and other things, including dead cells and mucus, can get trapped. When this happens, the debris can bond together.

Tonsil stones form when this debris hardens, or calcifies. This tends to happen most often in people who have long-term inflammation in their tonsils or repeated cases of tonsillitis.

Many people have small tonsilloliths, but it’s rare to have a large tonsil stone.

Tonsil Stone Symptoms

Small tonsil stones may not cause any symptoms that you’d notice. Even when they’re large, some tonsil stones are found only after X-rays or CT scans. Symptoms include:

• Bad breath. A main sign of a tonsil stone is severely bad breath, or halitosis, that comes along with a tonsil infection. One study of patients with a form of long-term tonsillitis checked their breath for things called volatile sulfur compounds, which can mean bad breath. The researchers found that 75% of the people who had unusually high amounts of these compounds also had tonsil stones.
• Sore throat. When you get a tonsil stone and tonsillitis together, it can be hard to figure out which is causing pain in your throat. The tonsil stone itself might give you pain or discomfort.
• Cough. A stone might irritate your throat and make you cough.
• White debris. You might be able to see a tonsil stone in the back of your throat as a lump of solid white material.
• Trouble swallowing. Depending on the location or size of the tonsil stone, it may be hard or painful to swallow food or liquids.
• Ear pain. Tonsil stones can develop anywhere in your tonsil. Because of shared nerve pathways, you might feel pain in your ear, even though the stone itself isn’t touching your ear.
• Tonsil swelling. When debris hardens and a tonsil stone forms, inflammation, infection, and the tonsil stone itself may make your tonsil swell.

Tonsil Stone Diagnosis

Your doctor can usually diagnose tonsil stones with a physical exam. If they’re hidden in the folds of your tonsils, you might need imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans, to spot them.

Tonsil Stone Treatment and Removal

Many tonsil stones, especially those that don’t have symptoms, don’t need special treatment. It depends on their size and whether they might cause you trouble.

Treatments include:

• Antibiotics. Medications may help, but they have side effects and can’t fix what’s causing your tonsil stones.
• Surgical removal. If your tonsil stones are unusually large or causing problems, your doctor might remove them.
• Tonsillectomy. If tonsil stones are a long-term problem, you might need to have your tonsils taken out.
• Cryptolysis. This uses a laser or a radiofrequency wand to scar your tonsils, making tonsil stones less likely.

Tonsil Stone Home Remedies

For smaller stones, you can try:

• At-home removal. You might be able to remove tonsil stones by scraping gently with water picks or swabs.
• Saltwater gargles. Gargling with warm, salty water may help ease the pain of tonsillitis and help remove stones.

Tonsil Stone Complications

Large tonsil stones can cause swollen tonsils and give you trouble swallowing. Tonsil stones can also sometimes trigger infections.

Tonsil Stone Prevention

People who have long-term tonsillitis are more likely to get tonsil stones. The only way to prevent them is to remove your tonsils.

Good dental habits can help prevent tonsil stones. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove bacteria and keep things from getting stuck in your tonsils. Gargling after eating can also prevent food buildup.

Tonsil Stones Might Be Causing Your Bad Breath – Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic

If you suffer from bad breath but can’t pinpoint the cause, tonsil stones may be the culprit.

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Most people probably don’t think much about their tonsils or even what purpose they serve. For some people, the tonsils are a continuing source of annoyance and pain. Tonsil stones are small calcium deposits that can build up regularly. They’re not a serious health risk, but they can harden and grow, and they sometimes need attention.

If you’ve never heard of tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths or tonsilliths, you’re probably not alone. Head and neck specialist Kyra Osborne, MD explains signs to look out for and tips for prevention and treatment.

What are tonsils?

Your tonsils help fight infection and the small, soft, fleshy bits of tissue sit at the back of the mouth on both sides. They can help detect and filter bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth. Tonsils do this by producing white blood cells and antibodies.

Your tonsils are covered with the same mucous membrane, or mucosa, that lines your mouth, nose and throat. It’s the crevices, or crypts, in your tonsils’ mucosa that may lead to problems.

Signs of tonsil stones

When food or debris get caught in the crevices of your tonsils, they sometimes harden or calcify, forming temporary calcium deposits. These deposits are often small, invisible to the naked eye and harmless.

“Some people may not have any symptoms,” says Dr. Osborne. “There’s no medical concern if the tonsil stones aren’t causing problems.”

For others, however, tonsil stones cause noticeable problems and some large stones are only discoverable during an X-ray for a different cause. The most common signs and symptoms are bad breath, throat irritation, swelling and a whitish node or bump on your tonsil.

Bad breath and throat irritation can also be signs of tonsillitis. However, tonsillitis is caused by viruses or bacteria and generally causes red, inflamed tonsils as well as fever, headache and other symptoms. While tonsillitis can affect people of all ages, it’s most common in children but rarely occurs in children under the age of 3.

“Some people can develop tonsil stones once or twice, while others can get them several times a week,” says Dr. Osborne.

People with lots of crevices, or crypts, in their tonsils are more susceptible to tonsil stones. Although they are more common in teens, anyone with tonsils can get them.

Tips for prevention and treatment

Tonsils stones develop from food and other substances that get stuck in the tonsils. The best way to prevent them is to keep your tonsils free of debris.

Dr. Osborne recommends brushing your teeth and tongue thoroughly and gargling with salt water after eating to help prevent any buildup. Water picks help to flush out the mouth as well, which may help dislodge tonsil stones near the surface. Many people self-treat tonsil stones at home, removing them with a toothbrush or cotton swab. If the deposits dislodge easily, removing them yourself generally won’t present a problem.

For those with recurring, troublesome tonsil stones, a tonsillectomy is sometimes the best option. Outpatient surgery to remove the tonsils will eliminate any problems they cause. A tonsillectomy usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia. Talk to your doctor if removing all of your tonsils is best for you.

“It’s a quality-of-life issue,” says Dr. Osborne. “If the tonsil stones happen frequently and they’re bothersome to you, surgery may be the right treatment.”

What Are Tonsil Stones? | Keck Medicine of USC

Learn what you can do about that buildup of bacteria in your tonsils.

Think of your tonsils as glandular traps. These traps guard the inside of your body, by catching incoming bacteria and viruses passing through your mouth and down your throat.

Like sponges, they have holes and crevices. When bacteria, food particles, mucous, and dead skin and cells become trapped, they clump together into a tonsil stone.

Tonsil stones, also called tonsilloliths, begin as soft, white clumps that might not even be visible. Over time, however, they can calcify and harden into stones. In either form, they are generally harmless, but their presence can signal more serious health issues, such as infection, tonsillitis and poor oral hygiene.

Symptoms of a tonsil stone include:

• Bad breath
• Visible white matter, caught within the tonsil’s folds
• Ear pain
• Swollen tonsils
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing, especially if the stone is large
• Pain, when the outside of the throat is touched

In some cases, you may see white gelled clumps in your tonsils but have no symptoms at all.

Removing tonsil stones

In most cases, removing a tonsil stone can be done at home. Using a cotton swab, gently push on the tonsil, behind the stone, to force the stone out. Vigorous coughing and gargling can dislodge stones, as well. Once the stone is out, gargle with salt water, to remove any remaining bacteria.

For larger stones that won’t budge, or if you have symptoms of a tonsil stone but don’t see one in your throat, it’s time to consult a doctor.

Procedures for removing stubborn tonsil stones include:

• Saltwater gargles
• Numbing your throat, so that the doctor can manually remove the stone
• An outpatient visit, to remove the stone
• Tonsillectomy to permanently remove the tonsils and, therefore, eliminate tonsil stones altogether

“Generally, manual removal and saltwater gargles are the way to go, with antibiotics reserved for acute flares,” says Eric J. Kezirian, MD, MPH, otolaryngologist at the USC Tina and Rick Caruso Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Keck Medicine of USC and professor of clinical otolaryngology – head and neck surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. “If tonsil stones recur often enough, tonsillectomy is warranted.”

Preventing tonsil stones

The only proven way to prevent tonsil stones is to remove your tonsils, but you can reduce their occurrence by intensifying your oral hygiene routine. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice daily, gargle with an antiseptic or salt water and drink water after eating, to flush away any food remaining in your throat. Smoking may also be a culprit, so consider quitting.

If your tonsil stones are painful, or if you’re concerned that they may signal a more serious medical condition, consult with a medical professional.

by Heidi Tyline King

If you are in the Southern California area and would like a consultation with a specialist, call (800) USC-CARE (800-872-2273) or visit ent. keckmedicine.org/request-an-appointment to schedule an appointment.

causes, symptoms, & how to remove them

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Small but mighty, our tonsils are an important part of our body’s immune system and can develop tonsil stones if you’re not careful.

We have three different types of tonsils—the palatine tonsils, the adenoids, and the lingual tonsils. However, our palatine tonsils are the only ones that can easily be seen through an open mouth. These soft, oval-shaped tissue masses are located in the back of your throat.

Tonsils are made of tissue similar to our lymph nodes and are coated with pink mucosa. They contain white blood cells that defend against bacteria and viruses that enter through your nose and mouth. Tonsils also help keep foreign objects from reaching our lungs.

Tonsils have tonsillar crypts which are like pits, crevices, or tunnels. Tonsil stones, also called tonsilloliths, are white or yellow formations made up of bacteria and live biofilm that get stuck in these tonsillar crypts and harden.

And they can be dangerous when not dealt with properly. Here’s everything you need to know about how to keep your tonsils healthy and what to do if you are affected by tonsil stones.

Causes and symptoms of tonsil stones

What causes tonsil stones? Tonsil stones may be caused by poor dental hygiene, large tonsils, chronic tonsillitis (inflamed tonsils), or chronic sinus issues. Debris in your tonsil crypts, whether it be particles of food from insufficient teeth cleaning or mucus from postnasal drip, can also cause tonsil stones. Some sources say around 8 percent of the population has tonsil stones, while other studies claim as many as 30 percent of people have them.

Tonsil stones causes can root from genetic factors. You’re at an increased risk to develop tonsil stones if you’re between the ages of 20 to 40. Women are around 33 percent more likely to get tonsil stones than men. People are more prone to tonsil stones if they have dry mouth, postnasal drip, overactive salivary glands, infections, or recurrent tonsillitis. In fact, a study published in the British Dental Journal discovered that 75 patients in the study who had tonsillitis also had tonsil stones. Only 6 percent didn’t develop tonsil stones as a result of this inflammation.

Frequently, people with tonsil stones don’t even realize they have them. That’s because the size and location of tonsils stones affect the symptoms they cause. They can range from the size of a grain of rice to a grape—with the smaller ones less likely to cause any symptoms. Small tonsil stones may even  be swallowed or coughed up without the person noticing. However, if you cough up tonsil stones, you’ll likely notice the smell right away. The larger ones are easier to detect as they can cause your tonsils to become inflamed and tend to smell noticeably unpleasant.

Why do tonsil stones make your breath small bad?

Sometimes, tonsil stones smell. Tonsil stones have a foul odor because they have a high amount of sulfur. According to a study conducted at the National Center for Biotechnology Information, 75 percent of people with uncommonly high quantities of sulfur in their mouths have tonsil stones. Tonsil stones raise your chances of bad breath by up to 10 times. Tonsil stones smell bad and can make your breath also suffer.

In addition to chronic bad breath, common symptoms of tonsil stones include white or yellow spots on tonsils, a sore or restricted throat, swollen tonsils, a feeling that something is stuck in your throat, ear pain, and/or difficulty swallowing. One might also experience coughing or a metallic taste in the mouth.

Tonsil stone pain can even spread to your ear and create a chronic earache. This is because your tonsils are connected to your ears by the glossopharyngeal nerve, which is commonly referred to as Jacobson’s nerve.

Symptoms that require medical attention include (but aren’t necessarily limited to): pus from the tonsil area, severely enlarged or very red tonsils, bleeding tonsils, breathing issues, pain (especially if uneven on each side), swallowing problems, and a sore throat of over a month.

Serious tonsil stone complications are rare, but do occur. It’s possible for your tonsils to become deeply infected or for large tonsil stones to damage tonsil tissue, so err on the side of caution when dealing with large tonsil stones.

How to get rid of tonsil stones

Tonsil stone removal can be tricky. Often, tonsil stones will dislodge on their own. If they don’t naturally dislocate and are painful or have a foul odor, it’s possible to remove them at home.

Gargles

Many people try to manually remove their stones with a toothbrush, but this isn’t recommended as your tonsils are delicate. Using rough items could cause bleeding or an infection. Tonsil stone removal should be very carefully tried at home, but seek professional help if you find at home remedies are not working.

Gargling with salt water, a nonalcoholic mouthwash, or diluted apple cider vinegar can help with any smell and possibly dislodge the stones. Some people choose oxygenating mouthwashes containing chlorine dioxide and natural zinc compounds. These are strong and should be used sparingly—not more than once or twice a week. Coughing, whether natural or forced, also tends to loosen up and helps remove tonsil stones.

Water flossing or Waterpik

A low-pressure water irrigator, such as a water flosser, is another useful tool for dislodging tonsil stones, as well as prevent new ones from developing.

To remove your stones with a water flosser, carefully aim the flosser towards the tonsil stones. Put it at the lowest setting and test to make sure it isn’t too painful. Do this in a well-lit area and be aware they may fall to the back of your throat. It isn’t dangerous to swallow tonsil stones, but it can be unpleasant to do so. Don’t use this method on children as they could choke.

See a dentist

If your tonsil stones are large or persistent, you may need help from a doctor or dentist to remove them. An official tonsil stones diagnosis can be challenging because the stones can hide in the folds of your tonsils. However, tonsil stones can show up in dental X-rays or a CT scan.

The first course of action is sometimes antibiotics because they decrease the amount of bacteria tonsil stones need to grow. However, antibiotics are more for tonsil stone management than a long-lasting cure and have side effects. You may need to see a dentist or doctor to prescribe pain medication if it gets unbearable.

Laser tonsil cryptolysis

Another option is laser tonsil cryptolysis. In this procedure, you’re often given local anesthesia before a laser is used to remove the crypts where the tonsil stones are lodged. This procedure is low in pain and recovery time is usually speedy. There is a slight risk of an airway fire (a surgical fire that occurs in an airway) or receiving oral or facial burns.

Coblation Cryptolysis

If lasers make you nervous, you can have tonsil stones removed with coblation cryptolysis (radio frequencies) that involves no heat. This method also removes tonsil crypts, but by changing a salt solution into charged ions that cut through the tonsil tissue. One session can significantly decrease stones or eliminate the current ones completely. Recovery takes only a few days.

Tonsillectomy

As a final resort, a medical professional may recommend a tonsillectomy. These are less common than they were in the past. Today, only severe or chronic cases require this procedure. And while it’s more common for children to have tonsillectomies, it’s also possible for adults.

To qualify for a tonsillectomy, you need to have seven cases of tonsillitis or strep throat within one year. During a tonsillectomy, your tonsils are surgically removed with a scalpel, coblation device, or laser. In addition to helping with tonsil stones, tonsillectomies can help with tonsillitis (infection of the tonsils), quinsy (recurring abscesses near tonsils), and some instances of obstructive sleep apnea.

Depending on your situation, you might also get your adenoids removed. Signs of enlarged adenoids include breathing through the mouth, a nasal-sounding voice, noisy breathing, and snoring. This procedure is called an adenotonsillectomy. Patients typically have trouble swallowing and a sore throat for a few days following the procedure and may continue to have some pain for a week or two. Bleeding is another possible side effect.

How long do tonsil stones last?

Tonsil stones usually dislodge on their own over a few weeks. Sometimes, a person can cough and dislodge the tonsil stone. However, if the problem persists, we recommend you see a dentist to discuss possible treatments.

How to prevent tonsil stones

A tonsillectomy is the only way to completely prevent tonsil stones, but as previously mentioned, this is only done after other methods have failed to eliminate your stones.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the best methods anyone can use to prevent tonsil stones. In addition to brushing your teeth twice daily, make sure to brush your tongue to remove bacteria. Alternatively, consider using a tongue scraper. Limit smoking, dairy products, and alcohol.

It is important to see a dentist frequently in order to maintain good oral hygiene. 

Smoking and alcohol can dry out your mouth and this can raise the chances of tonsil stones building up. Increase your water intake to stay hydrated and wash away food particles in your throat. Either gargle with salt water or use a water flosser to rinse bacteria off of your tonsils every week. If you have postnasal drip often, clean out your nasal passages.

Need Help?

Without surgery, you can’t completely prevent tonsil stones. But the good news is that, in many cases, tonsil stones show no symptoms and can be naturally eliminated without you realizing you had them at all.

However, as we’ve explored here today, it’s also possible for tonsil stones to be large and painful.

To help prevent these stones, try various mouth rinses and have high standards for your oral hygiene. If you still develop painful tonsil stones, you can try to remove them naturally with a water flosser or gargling. Alternatively, a professional can prescribe antibiotics, perform laser tonsil cryptolysis, use coblation cryptolysis, or conduct a tonsillectomy.

If you aren’t sure whether you’re suffering from tonsil stones or what to do about the ones you have, it’s time to check in with a dental professional. Find personalized dental care that’s approachable, convenient, and focused on you by signing up for Opencare right now.

Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Unlike other types of stones that are found in the kidneys or bladder, tonsil stones are located in the mouth and are a growth in the tonsil area. They are becoming a more common trend in modern medical times as most people today have their tonsils, as opposed to a few years ago when tonsillectomies were common. Tonsil stones (also known as tonsilloliths) may be painful and may cause a foul odor, but don’t always need medical intervention for their removal. Read on to learn more about what tonsil stones are, what causes them, their symptoms, and when you should be concerned, and how to treat tonsil stones both at home or with your medical provider.

What You Should Know About Tonsil Stones

The food you eat and other things you ingest (such as bacteria and dead cells) can become trapped in the throat on their way down and become stuck on the tonsils. This is how, initially, tonsil stones or tonsilloliths are formed. Tonsil stones usually take a bit of time to form and can be either very small, medium-sized, or very large. In fact, the largest tonsil stone on record is 14.5 cm, which is shy of six inches wide. However, most tonsil stones are small, and patients may not even realize at first that they have them.

There are actually three types of tonsils in the mouth:

• Pharyngeal – The tonsil type found in the back of your throat
• Palatine – Located on the sides of your throat
• Lingual – Near the back (base) of your tongue

It’s important to know that when patients (and many physicians) say tonsils, they’re referring to the palatine tonsils. When tonsillectomies were common, these were the type that was most often removed. These are also the type of tonsils where tonsil stones are most common.

Causes of tonsil stones are many, but often it does come down to poor oral hygiene as a primary cause. Food, bacteria, mucus, and dead skin can all become “trapped” on the way down; however, if a patient has good oral hygiene such as regular brushing and the use of mouthwash, it makes tonsil stones much more unlikely. Still, those who practice the best of hygiene are not immune to having tonsil stones form, even though good oral care is the best way to prevent tonsil stones.

Some of the more common symptoms include swelling and feeling that there’s an obstruction at the top of your throat. However, these are also common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux, so if you’re suffering from these symptoms for more than a few days, it may be time to consult your doctor. Other common symptoms of tonsil stones include difficulty breathing, especially when sleeping, and painful swallowing. However, some patients do not experience symptoms at all. In addition to symptoms, there are other slight signs that may indicate you have a case of tonsil stones.

Signs You May Have Tonsil Stones

Others may notice the signs of tonsil stones before you do. This is because the most common sign of tonsil stones is having bad breath or a foul odor that emanates from the back of the throat. Very often, others may notice these problems before we do as patients, so if a loved one does tell you that you’re suffering from bad breath, you may want to consider some of the other tonsil stone signs and let your doctor know. You may notice white or yellow flecks at the back of your throat, perhaps when gargling or brushing your teeth. If these seem to grow over time, this is a sure sign. A sore throat that is persistent (and not part of an unrelated cold or virus) is another top sign, along with swelling. Some patients experience ear pain.

Sometimes Home Remedies Can Get Rid of Tonsil Stones

Unless you are positive you have tonsil stones (for example, if you’ve experienced them before and are experiencing symptoms again), it’s always important to obtain a doctor’s opinion. However, your doctor may even mention that some home remedies do wonders to get rid of tonsil stones. Tonsil stones may break apart on their own after a few bouts of strenuous gargling with saltwater. Doctors and patients have also recommended home remedies for tonsillolith such as:

• Garlic. Simply ingesting garlic can help dissipate tonsil stones, as it is a natural antifungal and antibacterial.
• Apple cider vinegar. While saltwater is your best bet for dislodging the stone, some patients have had similar luck with gargling apple cider vinegar.
• Using a water flosser. This is also known as a water irrigator. However, because this offers more intimate contact with the stone and the tonsil, this is a method that your doctor should approve for you first. In other words, consult your doctor before you try this more invasive method.
• Essential oils. Some patients have had luck with oils such as lemongrass. Using this method, you would put two droplets on a toothbrush and lightly brush the stones. Again, consult with your doctor before trying this (and throw this now-bacteria-ridden toothbrush out afterward).
• Eating yogurt. Yogurt is a natural probiotic that can help dislodge a tonsil stone.
• Carrots and onions. Similarly to garlic, these superfoods have antibacterial properties that can help keep your mouth clean and free of stones.

Gargling with saltwater is the most recommended method, but some of the above home remedies can also aid in how to prevent tonsil stones (for example, ingesting probiotics, and eating carrots, garlic, or onions).

When Tonsil Stones Are Serious

Gargling with saltwater isn’t going to be the method that works for everyone. In some instances, tonsil stones may be serious, and may even require a more invasive method of treatment from your doctor, such as surgery. It can be tough to judge when a tonsil stone is severe and when it’s not, so when in doubt, make an appointment. Another good way to tell is if when gargling doesn’t work. Other things to keep in mind:

• If you have symptoms of tonsil stones, but no visible stones, see your doctor immediately. This could be indicative of another problem, or a tonsil stone that requires intervention.
• If your tonsil stones are large, clearly visible and painful, see your physician.
• Bloody saliva is another sign that there may be something more serious at work.
• Noticeable and acute pain, such as from the tonsil stone itself, neck pain, or visible swelling, are all good reasons to consult your doctor.

Your doctor may decide that more aggressive treatment is needed if your tonsils are infected, or if your tonsil stones are exceedingly large. Your doctor may use minor non-invasive surgery, such as laser removal or reshaping of the tonsils (tonsil cryptolysis) to remove your tonsil stones. The only way to prevent tonsil stones completely is to have a tonsillectomy. If the stones are a recurring problem for you or your stones are infected or painful, your doctor may recommend this. This is a very safe and simple procedure, and was a very common type of surgery several decades ago, particularly when tonsils were infected.

If you need more information about tonsil stones or need to be seen by a doctor immediately, walk in to any of the nearby TrustCare locations. Our goal is to always help you Feel Better Faster.

Do You Have Tonsil Stones?

Many people are familiar with the condition of stones forming in the body, such as kidney stones or gall stones, but did you know that stones can also form on your tonsils? Here is what tonsil stones are and how to tell if you have them:

What Are Tonsil Stones?

As with other types of stones that appear in the body, tonsil stones are deposits of calcified dead cells and bacteria. Tonsils are lymph nodes intended to block infections from reaching the lungs, and when the white blood cells inside of them leave behind debris while fighting off infections it can build up on the glands over time and form what we see as tonsil stones.

Tonsil stones form in the grooves on the surface of the tonsil glands themselves and usually appear as hard, white bumps. They can be very small or quite large if left in place for a long time, though this is rare.

How Do You Know If You Have Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones are most common in people who have chronic inflammation of the tonsil glands or who have poor oral hygiene. If you have swollen tonsils and suffer from bad breath and a sore throat, you may want to see if you have tonsil stones by checking the back of your throat in the mirror.

How Are Tonsil Stones Treated?

If you have mild or moderate tonsil stones, no medical treatment is necessary as they can usually be easily removed. Many people gently dislodge them using a toothbrush, cotton swab, or water flosser, followed by gargling with warm salt water to clear away any leftover debris.

Larger tonsil stones may be more difficult to remove by yourself and may require surgery, particularly if they occur along with tonsillitis. If you have recurring tonsil stones and inflammation of the glands, your doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy to prevent further issues.

A good oral care regimen is one of the ways to prevent tonsil stones from forming. Don’t forget to brush, floss, and use a good mouthwash daily. High Point Family Dentistry looks forward to helping all of our patients keep their mouths clean and healthy.

Contact our office to schedule your next appointment!

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90,000 Why is chronic tonsillitis not a safe disease?

Andrey Chelombitko
otorhinolaryngologist of the first qualification category of the medical center “ArsValeo”

The article was published on the portal 103.by

Why is chronic tonsillitis not such a safe disease as it might seem? What is the difference between the ailment in children and adults, and what to do in order not to get sick? How to recognize a disease and what to do to cure it.

What is chronic tonsillitis?

– Chronic tonsillitis – active, with periodic exacerbations, chronic inflammatory focus of infection in the tonsils.

The incidence of the disease in children is about 60-65%. In adults – up to 40%. It turns out that every third Belarusian is sick with chronic tonsillitis.

What factors contribute to the formation of chronic tonsillitis?

A decrease in the body’s resistance leads to frequent colds, tonsillitis, and since the palatine tonsils detain almost the entire infection and prevent its spread in the body, it accumulates there.Over time, the palatine tonsils lose their protective function and themselves become a focus of infection, as they lose their ability to cleanse themselves. Decay products (dead neutrophils, food debris) accumulate in the lacunae (excretory ducts).

Also, factors for the development of tonsillitis include: decreased immunity, lack of vitamins, especially vitamin C and B vitamins, frequent colds, frequent sore throats (4-5 per year), incomplete teeth (caries), chronic sinusitis, presence displaced nasal septum.

In children, to a greater extent, this is a pathology from the side of the nasopharynx (hypertrophy of the adenoids). With a strong increase in the adenoids, the child practically constantly breathes through the mouth, the palatine tonsils are supercooled, increase in size and do not return to normal, as a result of which the resistance to infection from the outside decreases.

What symptoms and tests can indicate that this is really chronic tonsillitis, and not other diseases?

• Frequent sore throats (4-5 times a year), otitis media, colds.Maintaining an elevated body temperature (in the region of 37.3-37.5 degrees) for up to 2 months.
• Prolonged discomfort in the throat, enlarged submandibular lymph nodes for a long time.
• It is necessary to take a blood test for certain indicators (in particular, antistreptolysin-O, reactive protein, and others) in order to understand the development of the disease.
• To pass a smear on the microflora from the oropharynx and antibiotic sensitivity.

Is it true that if a family member suffers from chronic tonsillitis, the children will get sick?

In 90% of cases, this is exactly what happens.If one family member has chronic tonsillitis and no measures are taken to treat it, the child will also get sick. One of the parents is a source of infection, so to speak, a carrier: there is constant contact with the child in the family (games, kisses) – the infection is transmitted to the baby.

Do white caseous plugs in the tonsils always indicate that there is chronic tonsillitis?

No. Not always. If a person is worried about only white caseous plugs in the lacunae of the palatine tonsils in the throat, bad breath, but all blood counts are normal, it is worth performing fibrogastroduodenoscopy (probe, – approx.I.R.). The formation of plugs in the throat may be preceded by pathology from the gastrointestinal tract, in particular, gastroesophageal or laryngoesophageal reflux disease (reflux of food and acidic contents from the stomach into the esophagus and larynx). The cause of the disease is from the digestive system, and as a result, the throat hurts. If you do not eliminate the cause, the effect will not disappear either.

To remove or not to remove the palatine tonsils?

Based on the results of the examination, it will be clearly seen what the next steps are: if the blood counts are normal, pathogenic microflora from the oropharynx is not isolated (namely, B-hemolytic streptococcus), there are no pathological changes on the part of the cardiovascular system, then a conservative therapy in the form of a course of washing the palatine tonsils, drugs, after which the examination is monitored.

History of paratonsillar abscesses, retropharyngeal abscesses, ASL-O values ​​during treatment above normal, complications in the form of myocarditis, glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis, rheumatism, suspicion of malignant formation (pronounced increase in one of the two tonsils) – direct indicators of removal palatine tonsils.

Removal of the palatine tonsils (tonsillectomy) is also necessary after 2-3 unsuccessful courses of conservative therapy.

Methods of treating chronic tonsillitis

• Conservative treatment is washing the lacunae of the palatine tonsils.Washing out caseous plugs is mechanical (using a syringe) and vacuum. According to the latest data, vacuum aspiration is good only at the first stage. She pulls out all the plugs. However, after a while the lacunae of the tonsils “break”. As a result, in the future, traffic jams are formed even more and more often. Mechanical washing of the lacuna does not “break”. The course lasts from 3 to 5 procedures. It is preferable to do it after the result of a smear on the microflora.
• Injection of antiseptic drugs into the tonsils.
• Antiseptic preparations.
• Immunomodulatory therapy.
• Physiotherapy treatment.

Previously, the introduction of paraffin preparations (sealing) was practiced, now they have moved away from this.

– Another method of treatment is cryptolysis of the lacunae of the palatine tonsils (lacunotomy) using a radio wave apparatus. Performed after a course of washing. The tonsils are not removed. During cryptolysis, the tissues of the tonsils are evaporated, sterilized and sealed.The enlarged and loose palatine tonsils decrease in size, and white caseous plugs are not formed, on average, 5 years. The procedure is painless and does not cause any discomfort for the patient. The manipulation is performed once every 3 weeks, their number is up to 5 procedures.

Surgical treatment (removal of the tonsils) is prescribed to the patient in cases where the tonsils do not perform their function. This can only be understood from the results of the analyzes, which are described just above.

Preventive measures

Healthy lifestyle, timely sanitation of the nasal cavity and mouth.You should also not neglect sports and proper nutrition with the introduction of vitamins into the diet. Be healthy!

Make an appointment for an ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck.

We will be glad to see you at our reception!

Employees of the information center of the medical center “ARS VALEO” are always ready to answer your questions and help you choose the most convenient time for your visit.

To make an appointment, as well as get detailed information about the services of our medical center, you can always call the indicated phone numbers:

+375 17 328-38-83 (city)

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Purulent plugs in the throat: description of the disease, causes, symptoms, cost of treatment in Moscow

Purulent plugs in the throat are a sign of untreated acute tonsillitis or chronic tonsillitis.If there is no treatment, then an exacerbation of sore throat occurs from three times a year and can cause the development of severe complications.

Chronic tonsillitis, due to which pus plugs appear in the throat, occurs in 7% of adults and 15% of children. Traffic jams are not always present during illness, but appear periodically at the moment when factors provoking a deterioration in the condition take place. The size of such formations can be from 1 mm to 1 cm. The record weight of the cork is 40 g. It is the appearance of purulent plugs that explains why there are white lumps in the throat.

Such accumulations of pus can form only in the palatine tonsils, since this is due to the peculiarities of their structure. They have special channels, in the exit from which a cork appears. If the tonsils are removed, then the formation of purulent plugs in the throat becomes impossible and the problem is solved once and for all. Without surgery, it is quite possible to cure the disease with proper therapy. Delaying seeing a doctor greatly increases the likelihood that a tonsillectomy operation will be required.

Can I delete it myself?

Everyone should know what to do if there are purulent plugs in the throat. Self-medication with them is highly undesirable.

Doctors do not recommend that you independently carry out procedures to remove plugs from the tonsils. The risk of harm in such a situation is much higher than the possibility of curing a sore throat. As a result of such manipulations, there is a danger of injury to the lymphoid tissues, due to which profuse bleeding will occur from them, which may require urgent medical attention.Also, improper cleansing of the glands sometimes provokes the spread of infection throughout the body, which is dangerous to health.

The only relatively safe method of removing plugs on their own, doctors consider extrusion with the tongue. They are pressed on the tonsils, causing the plugs to come out. After that, the throat is gargled to remove them. It is extremely harmful to swallow purulent accumulations. The tongue does not injure the delicate tissues of the mucous membrane and does not exert dangerous strong pressure, at which pus can escape inside, when there is a high probability of developing sepsis.A person with such purification will not harm himself.

Also, although doctors do not recommend it, sometimes you can do a homemade tonsil cleanse with a cotton swab or stick. The method is risky and traumatic, since you can press too hard and provoke the release of pus into deep tissues with the subsequent development of dangerous complications.

If there is no opportunity to visit a doctor, but you need to clean the tonsils, the procedure is carried out at home.This can be done no earlier than 2 hours after eating. Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth and throat with an antiseptic solution. A tampon made of sterile cotton or a cotton swab treated with an antiseptic is applied to the base of the tonsil and pressed upward. There should be no pain during the procedure. If, after 3 attempts, the purulent plug does not come out, then you cannot continue.

Prevention

You can prevent throat problems and the occurrence of congestion and sore throat if you do not forget about a number of preventive measures.They allow you to maintain good local and general immunity and prevent the development of sluggish inflammatory processes in the tonsils. Preventive measures are needed as follows:

• brushing your teeth in the morning and evening using not only a brush, but also a floss;

• treatment of diseased teeth and gums;

• rinsing your mouth after eating;

• drinking at least 2 liters of water per day, excluding liquid food;

• smoking cessation – toxins in nicotine smoke have a detrimental effect on lymphoid tissues and significantly aggravate the patient’s condition;

• proper nutrition, in which the body will receive all the necessary substances daily;

• wearing clothes for the weather, so as not to freeze and not overheat;

• refusal of strong alcohol – it burns the tonsils and causes an aggravation of the inflammatory process;

• full treatment of acute sore throat with a visit to a doctor and being on sick leave.

• treatment of nasal inflammation.

If you carry viral infections and acute tonsillitis on your feet, you can seriously undermine your health. In such a situation, even preventive measures cannot prevent the problem.

90,000 Chronic tonsillitis – disease of any age

Inflammatory processes in the throat are a big problem for both children and adults.About their most frequent cause – chronic inflammation of the palatine tonsils – says otorhinolaryngologist of the Consultative and Diagnostic Department of City Clinical Hospital No. 52 Zhukov Grigory Aleksandrovich .

We understand the terms.

The most common cause of inflammation in the pharynx is precisely the inflammation of the tonsils, or glands (this is the same thing, in fact) – accumulations of lymphoid tissue in the pharynx. Tonsils are called these formations because of the external similarity with the kernels of the almond nut, and glands – because the tonsils in translation – “little acorn”.In Latin we call them tonsillae – hence the name of organ inflammation – tonsillitis.

What are tonsils for?

The palatine tonsils are the organs of the immune system of the human body. They are involved in the formation of an immune response when pathogens of various infections enter the body. Normally, the infectious agent must enter the tonsils, where the cells of the immune system recognize it and develop reactions aimed at combating the causative agent of the infection.

Why does inflammation of the tonsils develop?

If the lymphoid tissue does not have time or is unable to neutralize the “enemy”, there is an inflammation of the tonsils themselves – tonsillitis.Chronic inflammation (chronic tonsillitis), as a rule, occurs as a result of the transferred sore throat, when a sluggish inflammatory process persists in the tonsils.

So, chronic tonsillitis is a protracted inflammatory process in the tissues of the tonsils. It can be in both children and adults.

What does a person feel?

Patients for a long time feel discomfort and sore throat, so-called “plugs” can cough up, there is an increase in temperature to subfebrile numbers, general weakness, which makes them see a doctor.

What does the doctor see during the examination?

When examining the pharynx, the doctor discovers swelling and redness of the palatine arches, enlargement and redness of the tonsils, their tissue is loose, plugs form in the lacunae of the tonsils. Tonsil plugs represent an accumulation of substance in the lacunae of the tonsils. This substance is a mixture of dead cells and waste products of pathogenic bacteria. If the corks persist for a long time, salts are deposited in their structure, so they become hard. Stoppers can be multiple and single, differ in structure, size and color.Most often these are small yellowish blotches visible in the lacunae, however, the color can vary from gray to brown.

What can a doctor prescribe for an exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis?

Complex treatment: medication (antibiotics), local (rinsing the throat with antiseptic solutions and irrigation with sprays), as well as good old physiotherapeutic procedures, after the exacerbation subsides, you can rinse tonsil lacunae from plugs (this is done by an ENT doctor). BUT: we do not advise you to self-medicate, especially you should not take antibiotics on your own.”Wrong” prescriptions can lead to the formation of resistance of the pathogen to the antibiotic, and in the future this drug will not be effective.

What is the danger of chronic tonsillitis?

The disease proceeds with periodic exacerbations in the form of tonsillitis. In a state of chronic inflammation, the tonsils are unable to do their job and become a focus of infection. The constant presence of infection in the body leads to a decrease in immunity, and therefore a tendency to frequent respiratory diseases.And if joint pains, pains and interruptions in the work of the heart join, these are signs of serious complications. That is why chronic tonsillitis in advanced cases is an indication for the removal of palatine tonsils. The operation is performed only as directed by an ENT doctor.

Removal of tonsils: where and how?

The tonsillectomy operation requires hospitalization in an ENT hospital for several days. It is performed under local or general anesthesia. In our department, we remove tonsils with a surgical method – with a scalpel, a loop.

Since a rather large wound is formed as a result of the operation, which in some cases requires suturing, we can leave the patient under observation for up to 5 days – in the postoperative period there is a high risk of bleeding. Some restrictions will be required – such as diet (liquid non-hot food), no exertion for 3-4 weeks and bed rest.

What about ice cream after surgery?

This is a famous childhood story. You can dissolve pieces of food, you can eat ice cream, but the main thing is to take good care of yourself for some time after the operation and ideally with attention and care in the future.

90,000 causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Tonsillitis is a disease characterized by an inflammatory process localized in the tonsils. If symptoms of this disease appear, you should urgently consult a specialist: the lack of therapy can lead to a number of serious complications and, in some cases, to infection of the internal organs of a person.

Causes of tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is caused by streptococcal bacteria, which are included in group A.Chronic tonsillitis occurs with poor-quality and untimely treatment of infectious diseases of the nasopharynx and oropharynx. If you have a white bloom on your tonsils with an unpleasant odor, this is a good reason to get tested for an ENT disease.

The inflammatory process develops with reduced immunity, hypothermia, significant stress, stressful situations, poor nutrition. Often, pregnant women get sick with this disease due to the weakening of the protective mechanisms in the body.

Local causes include deviation of the nasal septum, proliferation of the lymphoid tissue of the tonsils, polyps in the nasal passages.Inflammation of the maxillary sinuses and carious process can also be the cause of the chronic course of tonsillitis.

Here the form is blue

Symptoms of tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is characterized by:

• constant sore throat;
• pain while eating;
• inflammation in the lymph nodes;
• white bloom and yellowish lumps in the throat, abscesses;
• frequent cough and sore throats;
• increased temperature, especially in the evening;
• irritability, fatigue, general poor health;
• arrhythmia, shortness of breath;
• bad breath.

This is not the whole complex of symptoms of chronic tonsillitis. It is worth remembering that with the penetration of pathogens into other organs and tissues, the joints, kidneys and heart begin to hurt in patients, allergies appear and skin diseases develop.

Exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis

Exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis is accompanied by coarsening of lymphoid tissue and the formation of scars on the lacunae. In the appeared purulent foci, there are food debris and pathogens multiply, which are carried by the bloodstream to other organs.With an exacerbation, the disease turns into a typical or phlegmonous sore throat, which is dangerous with a number of serious complications.

Diagnosis of tonsillitis

To make a correct diagnosis, the specialist must familiarize himself with the complaints, the general condition of the patient, the test results (including blood tests), and the history of his illness. At the initial examination, the doctor palpates the lymph nodes and examines the throat using a pharyngoscope. Symptoms such as redness, thickening of the walls, purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor, plugs, scarring, swelling of the tonsils may indicate tonsillitis.

Treatment of tonsillitis

Treatment of chronic tonsillitis is based on the complex use of hardening measures, moderate physical exertion, physiotherapy procedures, local treatment with Lugol’s solution and similar drugs and the use of antibiotics.

When treating tonsillitis with antibiotics, they must be selected taking into account the specifics of this disease. A number of viruses easily destroy drugs based on penicillin, so specialists often prescribe drugs from a number of protected aminopenicillins.

Operations for tonsillitis (tonsillectomy)

In the absence of a therapeutic effect or significant complications caused by tonsillitis, the patient is prescribed tonsillectomy. This operation, aimed at removing the tonsils, can significantly improve the patient’s condition and has a beneficial effect on the vital activity of organs that have been affected by complications.

Tonsillitis Prevention

Preventive measures include personal hygiene, dental office visits, and a range of common immune-boosting health treatments.In addition, you should monitor the cleanliness of the living area and regularly perform wet cleaning with disinfectants.

Tonsillitis in children

Tonsillitis in children is characterized by almost the same symptoms as in adult patients. How to treat this disease in children? Specialists use:

• washing lacunae with antiseptics;
• treatment with anti-inflammatory solutions;
• Regular rinses with broths and warm salt water;
• inhalation techniques;
• aerosol antiseptics;
• antimicrobial absorbable tablets.

Antibiotics are used only in severe cases when the prescribed treatment does not work.

Cost of services of an ENT doctor at Profident Junior

* For more details about the cost of additional work, see the section Prices.

90,000 How to get rid of congestion on the tonsils | Healthy life | Health

Traps for germs

The tonsils, or, as doctors say, the palatine tonsils, are the organ we need for immune defense.They are permeated with gaps – thin winding depressions. This is a kind of trap for viruses and bacteria that enter the body along with air and food. Falling into the gaps, they encounter powerful immune resistance and die.

After that, leukocytes can remain in the grooves of the tonsils, peeled shells of microbes, and food particles get there. But if a person is healthy, the lacuna quickly cleans itself. Throat plugs occur only when there is inflammation in the tonsils. For example, with lacunar sore throat.But most of all the torment is caused by chronic tonsillitis, which develops if the sore throat is started or treated incorrectly.

“Jams” can cause bad breath. But most importantly, they support the inflammatory process, because their content is an environment in which bacteria and viruses feel very at ease. Long-term chronic tonsillitis is fraught with complications. It contributes to the appearance of acne, worsens the course of psoriasis, and can become an impetus for the development of joint diseases.Therefore, it is imperative to get rid of “traffic jams” and inflammation. Many people think that the easiest way to solve the problem is to remove the tonsils. In some cases, it is really necessary, but in most situations, conservative treatment can be dispensed with. So please be patient.

What not to do?

Try to remove the plugs yourself. Many hope to do this with rinsing. There is no harm from them, but the benefit in the case of chronic tonsillitis is small.The healing fluid in contact with the tonsils washes well only their surface. It is not able to penetrate deep into the clogged gaps. Therefore, although the discomfort in the throat is temporarily reduced, the main problem remains unresolved.

An even more barbaric method of self-healing (which, nevertheless, many resort to) is an attempt to remove the plugs by pressing on the tonsils with a finger or some hard object. Part of the content of the “white dots”, located close to the surface of the lacuna, in this case, really can come out.However, the secretions that are “at the bottom” are clogged with pressure even deeper. Because of this, the tonsil is additionally injured, and the course of the infectious process is aggravated.

What needs to be done?

Contact ENT for a professional cleansing of the tonsils. It can be done in two ways.

Manually. The doctor draws the medicinal solution into a syringe, puts a curved cannula tube on it, inserts it into the lacuna and rinses it.Usually, you need to repeat the procedure at least five times. This is the most widespread, the old method is now losing its popularity: the cannula, due to its diameter, cannot penetrate into small lacunae, cannot completely wash out the contents from the deep curved passages in the tonsils. In addition, the surface of the lacuna can be injured during the procedure. Tonsil tissue at the site of injury is replaced by scar tissue. Because of this, the “funnel” cleans itself even worse, and new plugs may appear in it after a short time.

On special devices. In this case, a vacuum suction is put on the tonsils after local freezing. Under its influence, the gaps expand, the content is pulled out of them. They are washed with an antiseptic solution, after which an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drug is injected into the tonsil using ultrasound. The ultrasound itself improves blood circulation in the problem area. As a rule, the course of treatment consists of 8-10 sessions. If the painful process in the throat could not be immediately defeated, the course is repeated six months later.But for many, one course is enough.

Infections and heart

Tyabut Tamara Dmitrievna, Professor of the Department of Cardiology and Rheumatology, Bel MAPO, Doctor of Medical Sciences

Year of health. Read and pass on to another

Among the diverse pathologies of the heart, diseases that arise as a result of the negative effects of infectious agents on the heart occupy a considerable share.
Infectious agents are a huge number of microorganisms found in the world around humans.These include bacteria, spirochetes, rickettsia, protozoa, pathogenic fungi, viruses. If in the last century bacteria were the main culprits of heart damage, then in recent years the importance of viral infections has increased.
Infectious agents can have a direct damaging effect on the heart muscle – the myocardium, or cause certain negative changes in the immune system, which leads to disruption of its functions.
Immune system – a set of cells, organs and tissues that carry out immune reactions, the main meaning of which is to protect the human body from the negative effects of environmental factors.Protection is carried out by recognizing foreign cells or substances that have entered the human body, neutralizing them or removing them from the body.
The functions of the immune system are regulated by the nervous and endocrine systems. The variety of powerful stressful influences that accompany the life of a modern person leads to a dysfunction of the immune system, and, therefore, weakens its defense against the effects of infectious agents. Therefore, quite often, infectious lesions of the heart occur against the background of excessive stress, mental trauma, negative events in a person’s life (conflict at work or in the family, illness of loved ones, loss of work, divorce, death of a loved one, etc.).etc.).
The body’s defense against infections – bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic – is carried out by two systems of immunity: congenital, determined by genetic factors transmitted from parents, and acquired, which is formed in the process of a person’s life.
Allocate natural and artificial immunity. Natural immunity is formed as a result of the transmission from mother to fetus through the placenta or with milk of ready-made protective factors, as well as as a result of contact with the pathogen (after an illness or after latent contact without the appearance of symptoms of the disease).Prevention of infectious lesions begins with the conception of a child and continues after his birth – a healthy mother and breastfeeding are the best methods of prevention at this stage of a person’s life.
After the birth of a child, artificial immunity is also included in the protection, which is formed during preventive vaccinations. Compliance with the vaccination calendar is the basis of prevention in the subsequent stages of a person’s life. Currently, vaccinations are carried out against the most common and severe infections, but there are a huge number of other microorganisms that have a damaging effect on the human body in general and the heart in particular.
Winter has come, and with its arrival the number of catarrhal diseases increases. The most common colds include acute tonsillitis (tonsillitis), exacerbations of chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis.
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the pharyngeal tonsils, which are secondary organs of the immune system. The cause of both acute and chronic tonsillitis are pathogenic microorganisms ( bacteria, viruses and fungi ), which, penetrating into the tissue of the tonsil, cause an inflammatory process and can have a general negative effect on the body in the form of intoxication.
Acute and chronic processes in the tonsils proceed differently. The manifestations of sore throat are severe sore throat when swallowing, enlargement of the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes, fever up to 39-40 degrees, headaches and muscle pains, general weakness associated with intoxication. These symptoms require mandatory, early medical attention. Chronic tonsillitis and its exacerbations can be manifested by a slight increase in temperature, especially in the evening, sore throat or slight sore throat, combined with increased fatigue, morning weakness, restless sleep, impaired appetite, which ultimately reduces a person’s ability to work.This condition is called tonsillogenic intoxication. Very often the patient, having visited many specialists, leaves them without answering the question: “Why does he have a fever?” And the whole point is only in chronic inflammation of the tonsils, in the treatment of which these symptoms disappear. Many people suffer exacerbations of tonsillitis “on their legs”, do not attach importance to its symptoms. And in the future they pay for this by the development of complications. There are several reasons for the occurrence of tonsillitis – structural features of the tonsils, impaired immunity, adverse environmental factors – hypothermia, viral colds.Among the factors that cause an exacerbation of tonsillitis, there are social – poor-quality nutrition, unfavorable environmental conditions, maximum employment at the workplace, stress, working conditions, everyday life, smoking, and medical – diseases 90 120 90 121 90 120 ENT organs 90 120 – pathology of the paranasal sinuses, individual features of the structure of the ENT organs (curvature of the nasal septum, enlargement of the turbinates, diseases of the nasopharynx (adenoids, polyps), frequent respiratory diseases, as well as dental caries.Chronic inflammation in the tonsils can be promoted by immunodeficiency states, other diseases of internal organs, and concomitant endocrine pathology.
In chronic tonsillitis, up to several dozen (usually about 30) types of microorganisms – fungi and bacteria can be found in the tonsils, but the main cause of the disease is streptococcus.

Tonsillitis caused by beta-hemolytic streptococcus.

In the presence of chronic tonsillitis, a large amount of pus accumulates in the lacunae, consisting of dead microbes, white blood cells – leukocytes, and other cells (purulent-caseous plugs). Pathogenic microbes multiply in the purulent contents of the lacunae. The waste products of microbes from the tonsils enter the bloodstream and lead to the development of tonsillogenic intoxication, manifested by fatigue, pain in muscles and joints, headaches, decreased mood, low-grade fever.The tonsils become a repository of infectious agents, from where they can spread throughout the body and cause inflammation. Frequent illnesses further weaken the immune system, which leads to the further development of tonsillitis. This is how a vicious circle of disease is formed.
Chronic tonsillitis is dangerous complications associated with the spread of infection throughout the body. These include paratonsillar abscesses, · damage to the heart (tonsilogenic myocardial dystrophy, acute rheumatic fever), blood vessels, kidneys.
Tonsillogenic myocardial dystrophy refers to often developing, but much less often diagnosed lesions of the heart muscle in chronic tonsillitis. It is caused by toxins from bacteria in the tonsils and products of local inflammation and tissue breakdown.
Clinical signs tonsillogenic myocardial dystrophy are caused by impaired activity of the autonomic nervous system (autonomic dysfunction) and impaired metabolism in the heart muscle (electrolyte, protein), which results in impaired energy production in the heart muscle.In the early stages of development, tonsilogenic myocardial dystrophy is manifested by a high heart rate – tachycardia, interruptions in the work of the heart – extrasystole, shortness of breath with intense physical exertion, and a violation of the general well-being of patients. With late diagnosis, signs of heart failure appear, the volume of load causing shortness of breath decreases, and more severe rhythm and conduction disturbances appear. With timely diagnosis and treatment of an extracardiac factor – chronic tonsillitis, which caused the listed changes in the heart muscle, they are reversible and gradually the structure and functions of the heart muscle
are restored.
The greatest danger for the prognosis and quality of life of patients is represented by heart damage in acute rheumatic fever.
Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) – post-infectious complication of tonsillitis (sore throat) or pharyngitis caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, in the form of a systemic inflammatory disease of the connective tissue with the predominant localization of the pathological process in the cardiovascular system (carditis), joints ( migratory polyarthritis), the brain (chorea) and skin (erythema annulus, rheumatic nodules), which develops in susceptible individuals, mainly young people (7-15 years).In the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, the incidence of rheumatic fever ranges from 0.2 to 0.6 cases per 1000 child population. The primary incidence of ARF in Russia at the beginning of the 21st century was 0.027 cases per 1000 population. The incidence of newly diagnosed chronic rheumatic heart disease (CRHD), which includes heart defects and specific changes in valves (marginal fibrosis), detected by ultrasound examination of the heart – 0.097 cases per 1000 population, including rheumatic heart disease – 0.076 cases per 1000 adult population.The available statistical differences between the incidence of primary morbidity of acute rheumatic fever and chronic rheumatic heart disease indicate the presence of a large number of undiagnosed acute forms of the disease.
The time interval between the transferred acute streptococcal tonsillitis, pharyngitis, exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis and the onset of manifestations of acute rheumatic fever is 3-4 weeks. In acute rheumatic fever, all structures of the heart – endocardium, myocardium, pericardium, can be affected.Damage to the myocardium (heart muscle) is always found. Manifestations of heart damage can be palpitations, shortness of breath associated with physical activity or at rest, pain in the heart region of an aching nature, which, unlike angina pectoris, do not have a clear connection with physical activity and can persist for a long period of time, palpitations, interruptions in the work of the heart, paroxysmal rhythm disturbances – atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter. Usually, heart damage is combined with an articular syndrome of the type of arthralgia – pain in large joints (knee, shoulder, ankle, elbow) or arthritis (inflammation) of the same joints.Joint inflammation is characterized by pain, changes in the shape of the joint caused by edema, reddening of the skin in the area of ​​the affected joint, a local increase in temperature and dysfunction of the joint in the form of restriction of range of motion. Small joints are much less likely to be affected. The inflammatory process in the joints is of a migratory nature and quickly passes against the background of proper treatment. Damage to the heart and joints is usually accompanied by an increase in body temperature, weakness, sweating, and disability.In some patients, there are lesions of the nervous system, skin rashes of the type of erythema annulus and subcutaneous rheumatic nodules.
For the diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever, there are diagnostic criteria that include clinical, laboratory and instrumental data, as well as information about the previous infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, its rheumatogenic strains. A timely diagnosis allows the patient to recover during therapy with antibiotics, glucocorticoid hormones, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.However, with late treatment, non-compliance by patients with motor regimen, presence of genetic predisposition, non-sanitized focal infection (decompensated tonsillitis, caries), the outcome of acute rheumatic fever may be chronic rheumatic heart disease with or without heart disease. Heart disease occurs as an outcome of inflammatory lesions of the heart valves. The presence of a heart defect of rheumatic etiology requires the patient to be classified as a high-risk group for developing infective endocarditis, the most severe form of heart disease associated with infectious agents.
Acute rheumatic fever refers to diseases in which prevention is essential to reduce both the primary morbidity and recurrent episodes of the disease (recurrent acute rheumatic fever).
Primary prevention is aimed at reducing primary morbidity and includes a complex of medical and sanitary and hygienic measures, as well as adequate treatment of infections caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The first direction includes hardening measures, acquaintance with hygiene skills, sanitation of chronic foci of infection , first of all – chronic tonsillitis and caries.The tonsils are thoroughly sanitized by repeated rinsing and rinsing with solutions of antibacterial agents, vacuum aspiration of the pathological contents of the lacunae. If this does not give the desired result, the issue of surgical treatment is discussed – removal of the tonsils. In each case, the choice of treatment tactics is determined by the otolaryngologist and therapist, cardiologist or rheumatologist.
Adequate treatment of tonsillitis and pharyngitis is aimed at suppressing the growth and reproduction of streptococcus in the body with the development of streptococcal pharyngitis, tonsillitis, tonsillitis.The basis of treatment is antibiotic therapy in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs, which should be carried out for at least 10 days with mandatory control of a general blood test, urine, and according to the indications of a biochemical blood test, when signs of illness appear, at the end of treatment and a month after the first signs of illness appear. A laboratory study carried out during this period allows you to correctly diagnose, determine the effectiveness of treatment, and, most importantly, not to miss the onset of the development of complications in the form of acute rheumatic fever.
Secondary prevention is aimed at preventing the development of repeated acute rheumatic fever and the progression of the disease in persons who have had ARF. It is performed in patients who are not allergic to penicillin drugs. The drug used for prophylaxis in adults is benzathine benzylpenicillin (extencillin, retarpen) at a dose of 2,400,000 IU 1 time in 3 weeks intramuscularly. Prophylactic regimens depend on the age of the patient and the outcome of acute rheumatic fever.In accordance with the recommendations of the Association of Rheumatologists of Russia, secondary prevention includes the following regimens:

• For patients with ARF without carditis (arthritis, chorea) – at least 5 years after the attack or up to 18 years (according to the principle “which is longer”).
• For patients with healed carditis without heart defect – at least 10 years after the attack or up to 25 years (according to the principle “which is longer”).
• For patients with a formed heart defect (including operated ones) – for life.

The most severe and prognostically unfavorable heart disease associated with infection is infective endocarditis – a disease characterized by the development of an inflammatory process on the valvular or parietal endocardium, including damage to large intrathoracic vessels extending from the heart, resulting from exposure to microbial infection. Most often these are various bacteria – streptococci, staphylococci, enterococci, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and many others.Described 119 different pathogens leading to the development of the disease.

This is how the heart valves look during the development of infective endocarditis.
Overlays of microbes, blood cells disrupt their function,
destroy the valve and often require urgent surgical treatment.

The prevalence of infective endocarditis at the beginning of the 21st century was 2-4 cases per 100,000 population per year.There is a widespread increase in the incidence rate, most pronounced in the older age groups and amounting to 14.5 cases per 100,000 of the population aged 70-80 years. Diagnosis of the disease is difficult. At the first visit to the doctor, the diagnosis is made only in 19 – 34.2% of patients. The average period from initial treatment to diagnosis is at least 1.5 – 2 months.

A group of patients with a high risk of developing infective endocarditis is distinguished, which includes:

• patients with previous infectious endocarditis,
• patients with prosthetic heart valves,
• patients with congenital blue defects,
• patients after surgical operations on the aorta, pulmonary vessels
• patients with acquired heart defects, primarily of rheumatic etiology (CRHD).

In addition, a group of moderate (intermediate) risk was identified, which unites patients with the following diseases:

• Mitral valve prolapse due to myxomatous degeneration or other causes with grade 2-3 regurgitation or multiple valve prolapse
• Non-cyanotic congenital heart defects (excluding secondary ASD)
• Bicuspid (bicuspid) aortic valve
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis).

It has been established that the pathogen must enter the bloodstream for the development of infective endocarditis. The most common cause of this can be dental manipulation, which is accompanied by damage to the gums and bleeding. In the presence of tooth decay or gum disease, bacteremia (the presence of the pathogen in the blood) can occur quite often.

Depending on the initial state of the heart and endocardium, the disease can occur in two variants.Primary IE (30% of cases) occurs on the unaffected endocardium under the influence of severe infections (staphylococci, gram-negative microorganisms, fungi).
Secondary IE (70% of cases) develops on valves or endocardium, altered due to congenital or acquired heart defects.
Diagnosis of infective endocarditis is difficult due to the fact that in the early stages there are no specific signs of the disease. Non-specific include fever, general malaise, weight loss, and decreased ability to work.Signs of heart damage are formed at 3-4 weeks of illness. Prior to this, the disease can be disguised as kidney disease, lung disease, strokes, thromboembolism in various internal organs, aggravation of chronic heart failure.
Prevention of infective endrcarditis may reduce morbidity. According to researchers from France, 60 to 120 cases of infective endocarditis are prevented per 1500 patients who received antibiotic prophylaxis. The economic costs of preventing infective endocarditis are much less than their treatment

Manipulations that can cause bacteremia and in which antibiotic prophylaxis should be carried out include:

• Bronchoscopy.
• Cystoscopy during urinary tract infection.
• Biopsy of the urinary organs or prostate gland.
• Dental procedures with a risk of injury to the gums or mucous membranes.
• Tonsilectomy, adenoidectomy.
• Dilation of the esophagus or sclerotherapy of varicose veins of the esophagus.
• Interventions for obstruction of the biliary tract.
• Transurethral resection of the prostate gland.
• Instrumental dilatation of the urethra.
• Lithotripsy (stone crushing).
• Gynecological interventions in the presence of infection.

Not only doctors and patients themselves should be active participants in the organization and implementation of the prevention of infective endocarditis. Not a single most literate and knowledgeable doctor can implement a prevention program without the desire and understanding of the importance of prevention on the part of the patient himself.

“If someone is looking for health, ask him first,
is he ready to part with all the causes of his illness in the future, –
only then can you help him.” Socrates

This is the meaning of both non-drug prevention, which is based on the correction of many behavioral risk factors, and drug prevention.
Knowing when to carry out prevention, it is necessary to know and how to do it. The choice of prevention method is based on 3 principles. The first principle is to determine which group you belong to – high or intermediate risk. The second principle – to assess the tolerance of antibacterial drugs – have ever been recorded any allergic reactions to drugs of the penicillin series (penicillin, bicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, oxacillin, and others).Principle three – before which procedure is the prophylactic administration of an antibacterial drug carried out.

When carrying out dental procedures or diagnostic and therapeutic procedures on the respiratory tract, esophagus, the following preventive regimens are recommended:

For patients of all groups without allergy to penicillin drugs:

• Amoxicillin at a dose of 2.0 grams by mouth by mouth 1 hour before the procedure.
• In case of problems with oral administration, ampicillin or amoxicillin in a dose of 2 grams intravenously 30-60 minutes before the procedure.

For patients allergic to penicillin drugs:

• Clindamycin 600 mg or

• Azithromycin 500 mg or

• Clarithromycin 500 mg orally 1 hour before the procedure

When carrying out manipulations on the organs of the urinary-genital and gastrointestinal tract, the following preventive regimens are used:

• For persons who are not allergic to penicillin drugs: High-risk group – ampicillin or amoxicillin at a dose of 2 g intravenously and gentamicin at a rate of 1.5 mg / kg body weight intravenously 30-60 minutes before the procedure.After 6 hours, ampicillin or amoxicillin is taken orally at a dose of 1 gram.

Intermediate risk group – Ampicillin (amoxicillin) 2.0 g intravenously 30-60 minutes before the procedure or amoxicillin 2.0 g orally by mouth 1 hour before the procedure

High-risk group – vancomycin 1.0 grams intravenously 1 hour before the procedure in combination with intravenous or intramuscular gentamicin at the rate of 1.5 mg / kg body weight.

Intermediate risk group – vancomycin 1.0 gram IV 1 hour before the procedure

The presented prophylactic programs for patients with acute rheumatic fever and infective endocarditis are not a prescription for purchase and a direction for administration of the drug. All preventive regimens should be discussed with the attending physician – therapist, cardiologist, rheumatologist. But without the knowledge of the patient himself, his awareness of the essence and significance of primary and secondary prevention of any disease, including infectious heart disease, to maintain a high quality of his life, it is impossible to carry out preventive measures.But it is precisely the prevention of both the disease itself and its complications that plays the most significant role. Any disease is easier to prevent than to cure.
The importance of doctor-patient interaction was recognized by ancient healers. Hippocrates wrote: “Life is short, the path of art is long, opportunity is fleeting, experience is unreliable, judgment is difficult. Therefore, not only the doctor himself must be ready to do everything that is required of him, but also the patient and those around him, and all external circumstances should contribute to the doctor in his activities.
And the Chinese healer Lao-Jun writes about prevention:
“If you want to save yourself from a catastrophe or solve a problem, then it is best to prevent their occurrence in your life in advance. And then there will be no difficulties. the best thing is to be ready for them ahead of time. Then there will be a happy outcome. Currently, people do not pay attention to this and do not try to prevent, but direct their efforts to save themselves. They do not try to prepare ahead of time, but try to heal with the help of drugs.Therefore, there are sovereigns who are not able to protect the sacrificial altar of state power. There are also such organisms that are not able to keep themselves intact for a long life.
Thus, a man of wisdom achieves happiness when there are no omens yet. He gets rid of trouble when it has not yet appeared. After all, a catastrophe is born of little things, and disease arises from the subtlest deviations. People think that little good is not useful, and therefore they do not want to do good.It seems to them that there will be no harm from a little evil, and therefore they do not strive to correct themselves. If you do not accumulate goodness little by little, then great Potency will not work. If you do not abstain from evil in small things, then a big crime will be committed. Therefore, we will choose the most important thing to show how it is born. “

Laser treatment of chronic tonsillitis in Kazan: find out the prices and make an appointment

Tonsillitis is an inflammatory infectious disease that is located on the tonsils.Pus is formed in the lacunae of the tonsils as a result of infection. Edematous and inflammatory processes slow down its outflow. This is how plugs are formed, which worsen the patient’s condition.

Traditional methods of treatment of tonsillitis

• Throat gargle antimicrobial agents,
• Tonsils are washed with disinfectant solutions,
• Taking medications – antibiotics, vitamins, etc.p.

If the treatment is carried out incorrectly, then angina can become chronic, and exacerbations of the disease appear, as a rule, in the off-season, in spring and autumn.
Chronic tonsillitis in such cases is usually treated with surgery to drain the pus.

Treatment of tonsillitis: an innovative method of laser surgery

Now there is an innovative method of laser non-surgical treatment of tonsillitis, which is successfully used in the MEDEL Clinic.

Advantages of laser treatment of tonsillitis

• Treatment is low-traumatic,
  because dissection of the tonsils with a scalpel is not required.
• Purulent plugs in the tonsils are removed without pain,
  under local anesthesia ;
• Short treatment time;
• Outpatient,
  i.e. hospitalization is not required;
• Minimum rehabilitation period:
  the patient can return to his usual life the very next day.

The problem of chronic tonsillitis (or tonsillitis) at the MEDEL Multidisciplinary Clinic is solved with the help of minimally invasive laser surgery.

Otolaryngologists of the MEDEL clinic have extensive experience, have performed hundreds of successful operations. Patients are guaranteed a quick solution to the problem.

Make an appointment at the ENT department of the MEDEL Clinic in Kazan by phone: (843) 520-20-20.

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