What causes a sore throat and white spots on the tonsils, and what should be done about it?

Throat pain accompanied by white spots on the tonsils may be caused by food residue, accumulated mucous secretions, acute tonsillitis, suppurative tonsillitis, or tonsil stones. Symptoms can be improved through oral hygiene, dietary adjustments, and medication. If symptoms are accompanied by high fever or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is required.

1. Food residue: After eating, food particles may become trapped in the tonsillar crypts and form white deposits if not cleaned promptly, irritating the throat and causing pain. It is recommended to rinse the mouth with warm water after meals, use dental floss to clean between teeth, and gently wipe any remaining debris from the tonsil surface with a cotton swab if necessary.

2. Accumulated mucous secretions: Dryness or mild inflammation in the throat can increase mucus production. As these secretions concentrate, they may adhere to the tonsils and cause mild sore throat. Drink plenty of warm water to keep the throat moist, avoid spicy or irritating foods, and minimize excessive voice use.

3. Acute tonsillitis: Caused by bacterial or viral infection, this condition leads to inflamed, swollen, and congested tonsils with white patches on the surface, along with significant throat pain that worsens during swallowing. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may take medications such as amoxicillin capsules, Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, or compound chlorhexidine mouthwash to relieve symptoms.

4. Suppurative tonsillitis: A progression of acute tonsillitis, this condition involves pus formation within the tonsillar crypts, resulting in white pus points or membranes, accompanied by high fever and severe throat pain. Under medical supervision, medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, ibuprofen suspension, and Kaihoujian spray may be used to alleviate discomfort.

5. Tonsil stones: Calcification of food debris and bacterial byproducts within the tonsillar crypts forms small, hard white particles that cause throat pain and a sensation of a foreign body. Patients should follow medical advice to use metronidazole mouthwash, chlorhexidine mouthwash, or amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets to manage symptoms. In some cases, a doctor may need to remove the stones.

Drink plenty of warm water to soothe the throat, maintain a light, liquid-based diet, avoid hard or spicy foods, ensure adequate rest, and practice good oral hygiene to promote symptom relief and recovery.