About Cryptic Tonsil Removal
The tonsils, which are the lymphatic tissue at the back of the throat, contain pockets also known as crypts. When these crypts become infected with bateria, mucus or dead cellular tissue, the tonsils can be problematic and may need to be surgically treated or removed.
-
Signs of Cryptic Tonsils
-
Tonsils containing crevices filled with white, grey or yellow stones (also known as tonsilloliths) can be bothersome. You may notice the stones themselves when looking in the mirror, or you may cough up the stones when they become dislodged. Bad breath and chronic sore throat are additional signs of cryptic tonsils which may need to be treated or removed.
Removing the Stones Yourself
-
One option is to remove the stones yourself, using a device such as a water pick or gently using a clean, washed finger or a q-tip to dislodge the stones from the crypts in the tonsils. However, it is important not to damage the surrounding tissue or introduce bateria into the throat when doing this. Often tonsil stones will fall out on their own.
-
Seeing your Doctor
-
If the tonsil stones become particularly bothersome, or if they are large or causing breathing problems, swalling problems or pain, it is advisable to see your doctor. The cryptic tonsils will be assessed, and the tonsil stones can be removed using a local anesthetic.
Tonsillectomy
-
Rarely is tonsillectomy indicated for cryptic tonsils. However, in severe cases, a full tonsillectomy can be performed, which removed the entire tonsil structure. The procedure is painful and requires general anesthesia and a significant recovery period, which is longer for adults.
Risks and Benefits
-
Tonsillectomy can involve bleeding, infection, pain and post-operative complications. However, once the tonsills are removed, there is the advantage of never having to worry about the bothersome tonsil stones developing in crypts, and quality of life issues such as halitosis, discomfort and foreign body sensation are vastly improved.
-
