The appearance of white spot on tonsil can be a symptom of a serious infection called tonsillitis. White spot on tonsil can also be a symptom of burns or damage caused by toxic chemicals. Sometimes the white spot on tonsil are accompanied by coughing, sneezing, a sore throat, nausea, a headache, a stuffy nose, or aches and pains. You should seek medical attention quickly if such symptoms appear because it is caused by infection which can be life threatening if left untreated.
Potential Causes of White Spot on Tonsil
Tonsil Stones
The “stones” are actually hardened deposits of debris on the tonsils. The debris can include food, bacteria, fungus, viruses and dead cells so it can get infected. The infection can be painful, cause bad breath and earaches and spread to other parts of the body.
Tonsillitis
This condition is actually the inflammation of the tonsils that makes the tonsils swollen and painful. Its symptoms include white spots on tonsils, swelling, aches, pains and fever.
Strep Throat
This term can refer to any bacterial infection of the throat. Contrary to common belief, bacterial infection can get to tonsils. This always accompanies a scratchy feeling, a fever and a very sore throat.
Oral Thrush
Thrush is actually a fungal infection of the mouth that can also infect the tonsils and the throat, which can lead to losing sense of taste. Oral thrush is very common in people with weakened immune systems and prefer high sugar diet.
Mononucleosis
Also known as the kissing disease, Mononucleosis is a viral infection that can cause fatigue, headaches and fever. It can be serious because it infects the nervous system. Except white spot on tonsils, it can cause a severe sore throat and swelling all over the body. It spreads through contaminated plumbing features and often affects teenagers.
Diphtheria
This is a very serious bacterial infection that is very rare in developed countries like the United States or Canada. Those infected have sore necks, inflammation and trouble breathing and swallowing food. It is potentially life threatening because it affects breathing.
Vincent’s Angina
Despite its name, this is actually a serious bacterial infection that causes ulcers on the tonsils and the mouth. The ulcers can bleed and be very painful. It often originates in the gums and spreads to the tonsils.
Pharyngitis
This is an infection that can be caused by bacteria, virus and fungus. It affects the throat, the tonsils, and the larynx or voice box, causing inflammation and white patches.
Home Remedies for White Spot On Tonsils
Soothe Your Throat
You should sip some caffeine free fluids all day to get your throat moisturized and speed up the healing process. Honey tea, chicken broth and warm water is highly recommended. Cold compress like cold packs, ice pops, cold beverages are good for swelling. Be sure to avoid diary products that promote mucus production.
Try a Salt Water Solution
Gargling salt water two or three times a day can kill most of the pathogens. Mix one teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water. Try this solution several times every day.
Quit Smoking
Tobacco smoke can irritate the tonsils and cause infections, weaken the immune system and lead to respiratory problems that worsen the existing infection. Avoiding air pollution, especially second hand smoking can also help prevent tonsil problems.
Medical Treatments for White Spot in Tonsils
Throat Swab Test
If you go to the doctor with white spots on tonsils, the first thing he will do is to wipe a sterilized cotton swab across the spots. This is done to collect samples of the afflicted area, which are tested to identify any pathogens that cause your condition. The testing is necessary to tell the doctor what treatment can be used.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can kill most of the bacterial infections that afflict the tonsils. Unfortunately, they do not work against viral or fungal infections. There are also many antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria around. Only take antibiotics with a doctor’s prescription and follow all of the instructions given.
Surgery
This surgery is a simple and well proven in which a doctor simply removes the tonsils. It can be a highly effective treatment for problems like tonsil stones. Such operations are less common today because other treatments like antibiotics can be effective. This is a minor surgery that is usually done on an outpatient basis. Most doctors will refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist for the procedure.
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