Why does the throat expel small yellow particles that smell bad, and what should be done?

Generally speaking, the term "throat" refers to the pharynx. The expulsion of small yellow particles with a foul odor from the throat may be caused by food residue retention, natural shedding of pharyngeal mucosa, tonsilloliths (tonsil stones), chronic pharyngitis, sinusitis, or other conditions. Treatment options include general care measures and medication therapy, under a doctor's guidance. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Food Residue Retention

During eating, some food residue may remain in the throat or within the tonsillar crypts. Under the action of oral microorganisms, this residue can ferment and decay over time, forming small yellow particles accompanied by a foul odor. It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene, such as rinsing the mouth after meals and using dental floss to clean between teeth, to reduce the accumulation of food residue in the oral cavity and throat.

2. Natural Shedding of Pharyngeal Mucosa

The cells of the pharyngeal mucosa continuously undergo metabolism, and some aged or dead mucosal cells may be expelled from the body with sputum. When these cells remain and accumulate in the throat, they may also form small yellow particles with an unpleasant odor. It is recommended to drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist, and to avoid prolonged loud speaking or excessive voice use to reduce mucosal damage and shedding.

3. Tonsilloliths (Tonsil Stones)

Tonsilloliths form when food particles, bacteria, and shed cells accumulate in the tonsillar crypts and become calcified over time. These stones have a rough surface that easily traps bacteria and food residue, resulting in a foul smell. Symptoms may include sore throat, foreign body sensation in the throat, and difficulty swallowing. Under medical guidance, medications such as Reyan Ning Syrup, Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Capsules, and Penicillin V Potassium Tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis is usually caused by repeated episodes of acute pharyngitis, long-term smoking or alcohol consumption, or excessive voice use. Prolonged irritation leads to increased and thickened secretions from the pharyngeal mucosa; some of these secretions may form small yellow particles with an unpleasant odor. Symptoms may include dryness, itching, and pain in the throat. It is recommended to use medications such as Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, Fructus Schisandrae Soft Capsules, and Lanqin Oral Liquid under a doctor's supervision.

5. Sinusitis

Sinusitis typically occurs due to infection of the nasal sinus mucosa by pathogens such as bacteria or viruses, or due to allergic reactions. Secretions from the sinuses may drain through the nasopharynx into the throat, forming thick, odorous sputum. When this sputum remains and accumulates in the throat, it may form small yellow particles. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, runny nose, and headache. Medications such as Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Tablets, and Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets may be used under medical supervision.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and reduce consumption of spicy and irritating foods; engage in regular physical exercise to strengthen immunity; and ensure fresh indoor air while avoiding inhalation of harmful gases and dust.