What You Need To Know About Green Tonsil Stones

What Are Green Tonsil Stones?

Green tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths or calculi, are small formations that occur in the tonsil crypts. They form when debris such as mucus, dead cells, and bacteria become trapped and calcify in the tonsils' crevices. Green tonsil stones usually range from white or yellow in color, but sometimes can present as green.

What Causes Green Tonsil Stones?

There are several potential causes and contributing factors that can lead to the development of green tonsil stones:

• Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in the tonsils can cause an overproduction of mucus and debris that gets lodged in the tonsil crypts.
• Post-nasal drip may cause mucus and germs from the nose and sinuses to make their way into the throat and tonsils.
• Poor oral hygiene allows sulfur compounds from food and bacteria to build up and react in the mouth and tonsils.
• Diets high in dairy products can lead to increased mucus production and calcium buildup.
• Dehydration causes a decrease in saliva which typically helps clear away dead cells and debris.

In some cases, green tonsil stones may indicate an infection. The color may come from high levels of the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Klebsiella pneumoniae. Fungal infections have also been associated with greenish tonsil stones.

Symptoms of Green Tonsil Stones

Green tonsil stones share many common symptoms with regular tonsil stones. The most common signs and symptoms include:

• Bad breath (halitosis) - Foul smelling breath is a classic symptom, often described as similar to rotten eggs.
• Visible white/yellow spots - In some cases, you can see the calcified stones in the back of the throat.
• Sore throat - The debris and bacteria cause inflammation and irritation.
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) - Large stones can obstruct swallowing.
• Ear pain - Swallowing problems create pressure changes that radiate into the ears.
• Coughing fits - Coughing occurs when stones become dislodged and enter the windpipe.

When green in color, tonsil stones may also be associated with symptoms of an infection such as:

• Red, inflamed tonsils
• Discolored phlegm or mucus
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever

Diagnosing Green Tonsil Stones

Green tonsil stones can often be diagnosed just by visual examination of the tonsils. Your doctor will use a flashlight and probe to closely inspect your throat for any signs of debris, swelling, or redness.

They may also order tests to check for infection, including:

• Throat culture swab - Samples any bacteria or fungi present.
• Blood tests - Identify markers of infection such as elevated white blood cell count.
• Oral swab - Detects oral bacteria levels.

Imaging techniques like CT scans or X-rays may be used if there is concern you have unusually large or abundant tonsil stones. Biopsies are rarely needed but can be taken to check for cancer in very severe cases.

Green Tonsil Stone Treatment Options

Treatments for green tonsil stones focus on removing the debris and controlling any underlying infection:

Removal

• Saltwater gargling can help irrigate out stones and debris loosened from the tonsil crypts.
• Manual extrusion involves applying pressure to the tonsils with a cotton swab or irrigation syringe to squeeze out stones.
• Tonsil suction devices use suction pressure to draw out debris lodged deep in the tonsils.

Medications

• Oral steroids may help shrink swollen tonsils and open any blockages preventing stone passage.
• Antibiotics will be prescribed if a bacterial infection is found to be associated with your stones.
• Anti-fungals can combat fungal infections contributing to debris buildup.

Surgery

If stones are very large or continue forming despite other treatments, surgically removing the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be an option. This eliminates the tonsil crypts where debris can collect.

6 Tips to Prevent Green Tonsil Stones

Practicing good oral hygiene and healthy habits can help prevent recurring tonsil stones. Try these home care tips:

1. Brush teeth and tongue daily - Thoroughly removing bacteria prevents sulfur compounds that cause odor.
2. Floss regularly - Clearing away food debris prevents particles finding their way to the tonsils.
3. Gargle with salt water - The salt solution helps remove debris and reduces inflammation.
4. Use an oral irrigator - Flushing the tonsil crypts can keep them clean.
5. Avoid dairy - Limiting dairy intake can reduce mucus production.
6. Stay hydrated - Getting plenty of water helps thin out mucus discharge.

When to Seek Medical Care

In most cases green tonsil stones can be managed with at-home care. See your doctor or otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) right away if:

• You experience severe pain or difficult/painful swallowing
• Tonsil debris obstructs breathing
• You have signs of infection like fever or severely inflamed tonsils
• Stones continue forming after a course of antibiotics or other treatment
• You cough up blood or foul smelling pus

With proper attention to oral hygiene and healthy habits, green tonsil stones can often be avoided altogether. Surgical removal of the tonsils provides a permanent solution for those with frequently recurring stones. By addressing these clumps of debris early, serious complications can be prevented.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.