Beat Tonsil Stones

100% Natural Way to Remove Tonsil Stones

http://www.beattonsilstones.com 2009 beattonsilstones.com All Rights Reserved

Table of Contents
About the book What are Tonsils? Definition of Tonsil Stones Formation of Tonsil Stones Macroscopic Appearance Microscopic Appearance Predisposing Factors for Developing Tonsil Stones What are the Symptoms of Tonsil Stones or Tonsilloliths? How to Prevent the Occurrence of Tonsil Stones? Treatment Guidelines Method 1 Oral Hygiene Method 2 Gargling What is Gargling? How does Gargling Help to Treat Tonsil Stones? Substances that can be used for gargling Method 3 Cotton Swab Instructions Method 4 Water Pik Method 5 Oral Irrigation Method 6 Homeopathic Remedies Method 7 Tonsillectomy Method 8 Laser treatment Facts and Myths about Tonsil Stones Conclusion Summary References 4 5 5 5-6 6 7 7-8 8 8-9 8 9- 10 10 10 10 10- 11 12 12 12 - 13 13 - 14 14 14 - 15 15 15 - 16 17 18 19

DISCLAIMER
All Information in the E-book is for general informational purposes only. The author has used his best efforts in preparing this document and makes no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability or completeness of the information contained within. Furthermore, the author takes no responsibility for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in this document. The author disclaims any implied or expressed warranties or fitness for any particular purpose. The author shall in no event be held liable for losses or damages whatsoever. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any consequences resulting directly or indirectly from any action or lack of action that you take based on the information in this document. Use of the publication is at your own risk. This document is not medical advice and should not be treated as such. Always consult your doctor for any medical advice and before starting any medical treatments or this entire program. This program is not a substitute for medical advice and treatment. The author does not claim to be able to cure or remedy any illness, chronic condition or health problem. The author is not and does not claim to be a health professional and urges you to seek professional medical advice if you have or suspect you have a health problem. Results will vary depending on your circumstances and no warranties or representations are made with respect to your own results. Reproduction or translation of any part of this publication by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the permission of the author, is both forbidden and illegal. You are not permitted to share, sell, and trade or give away this document and it is for your own personal use only, unless stated otherwise. Each document may be marked with an invisible watermark to allow the author to identify the original customer of the document. By using this publication, you agree that you have read the disclaimer and agree with all the terms.

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About the Book

Beat Tonsil Stones is a concise informative guide aimed to create awareness in the society about tonsil stones or tonsilloliths, a condition that is quite common but less heard of by the public. Tonsil stones are present in a vast majority but most people are negligent about this condition as the symptoms are minor and cause very little inconvenience to the patient and thus go undiagnosed for many years. It is not a harmful or dangerous condition but tonsilloliths can significantly affect the quality of life if the symptoms become severe and is left untreated. Modern medicine offers a vast array of treatment methods which are not only easy to administer but also give immediate relief from the symptoms. There are many natural methods of treatment apart from medications and surgery to remove tonsil stones. This ebook will give you an overview of the various natural treatment methods that can be followed for patients who suffer from this disease. We will also tell you, in brief, what exactly are tonsil stones, their causes and symptoms and clarify certain myths associated with this condition. To conclude, Beat Tonsil Stones will prove to be extremely beneficial to all those who scourge the internet for information on tonsil stones.

What are Tonsils?

Tonsils are two glandular tissues present on either side of the back of the throat. They vary in size in different individuals. The small pockets that can be seen on the tonsils are the tonsil crypts. Tonsils act as the bodys defense mechanism and along with the adenoids and other lymphoid tissue help in providing protection to the lungs and abdominal tissues from harmful intruders like bacteria, viruses, allergens and other foreign matter. In short, it acts as a filter thereby preventing the spread of infection to the mouth and sinuses. Tonsils also produce antibodies which form another line of defense mechanism in preventing the spread of infection to other parts.

Definition of Tonsil Stones

Tonsil Stones or Tonsilloliths are also called calculi of the tonsil. These can be defined as irregularly shaped, putrid-smelling, whitish or yellow globs of hardened calcified material containing mucus, bacteria, blood cells and food particles that get caught in the tonsil crypts.

Formation of Tonsil Stones

People with large tonsils have deep crypts which tend to accumulate food particles. The carbohydrates and starch in these particles are broken down by the salivary enzymes leaving behind harder lumps. Other debris like bacteria and cells shed from the mouths lining are also trapped by the tonsils and get accumulated along with the hardened remains of food which are then attacked by the white blood cells. The final result is tiny hardened lumps which get lodged firmly into the tonsil crevasses and get calcified and increase in size over time. These are tonsil stones or tonsilloliths.

Most people have many tiny tonsil stones embedded in their tonsils and very rarely a single, large, solidified stone. The accumulating oral bacteria are usually sulfurproducing and hence people with tonsil stones have bad breath.

Section through one of the crypts of the tonsil

Macroscopic Appearance
These stones are putrid smelling and appear as off white or cream colored small, hard particles in between soft, cheesy flecks. When large, they become rough and take on a yellow or grey color.

Microscopic Appearance
Tonsilloliths contain calcified matter from dairy products as its nucleus around which an amalgamation of other food particles, bacteria, mucus, leukocytes and mouth debris are arranged in a concentric and laminated pattern.

Predisposing Factors for Developing Tonsil Stones

Large tonsils People with large tonsils also have deep crypts or crevasses where the food particles can easily get lodged and lead to the formation of tonsil stones. Presence of excessive oral bacteria Absence of a healthy oral regimen leads to increased amounts of oral bacteria; these tend to get deposited in the tonsil crypts and lead to the formation of tonsil stones. They also increase the chances of the tonsils getting infected. And as already mentioned, the sulfur-producing oral bacteria also cause bad breath. Recurrent attacks of tonsillitis Tonsillitis is the infection of the tonsils mainly caused by harmful bacteria. People prone to recurrent tonsillitis are also at increased risk of developing tonsil stones due to the presence of these bacteria. Lactose intolerance Lactose is the sugar present in milk and dairy substances. A person is said to be lactose intolerant if he or she cannot easily digest milk and other dairy products like cheese, butter or yoghurt. Lactose intolerance goes unnoticed in a large majority of people as the symptoms are not too obvious unless you are severely intolerant. In people who are lactose intolerant, calcium tends to get deposited in different parts of the body including the tonsils. As you consume more dairy foods, more and more calcium tends to get deposited forming small clumps which lodge in the tonsil crypts leading to the formation of tonsil stones. Post nasal drip Many healthcare professionals consider this to be a contributing factor to the development of tonsil stones. Post nasal drips contain excessive amounts of bacteria and mucus which can accumulate on the calcified lumps and lead to tonsilloliths.

What are the Symptoms of Tonsil Stones or Tonsilloliths?

Most often small tonsil stones do not cause any evident symptoms and are incidentally discovered during a medical examination or on X-rays or CT scans. However larger tonsilloliths often show many symptoms. Halitosis Halitosis or bad breath as commonly known is a prime indicator of the presence of tonsil stones. This is a terribly embarrassing condition that can seriously affect your self confidence. A recent study showed that 75% of people with halitosis had high concentrations of volatile sulfur compounds like methyl mercaptan and hydrogen sulfide in their breath and these patients were also seen to have tonsil stones. Hence, the presence of these foul-smelling compounds or bad breath even after brushing or using a mouthwash can be used for the differential diagnosis of tonsil stones. The foul smell can also be caused by the mucus which builds up as a result of consuming dairy foods. Presence of white debris Some stones can be visibly seen on the tonsils but mostly they are hidden in the crevasses and require imaging techniques like computerized tomorgraphy or magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis. Sore throat This symptom is usually associated with tonsillitis but is also felt by patients with tonsil stones. However, if a person suffers from both tonsillitis and tonsil stones it will prove difficult to determine if the pain is due to the infection or the stone. Pain or difficulty while swallowing food Most patients experience pain or difficulty while swallowing food depending on the size and location of the tonsillolith. White tongue Some people have a white tongue which can be an indication of the presence of tonsilloliths. This is nothing but a coating of bacteria and mucus on the tongue. Swelling of the tonsils People with tonsil stones can also suffer from tonsilliltis, which is infection of the tonsils, which in turn causes inflammation or swelling of these glands. Ear pain There have been instances where patients with tonsil stones suffer from ear pain. This occurs due to the shared nerve pathways between the both regions. Cough If present with no other apparent reason, cough can also be considered to be an indication for tonsil stones.

How to Prevent the Occurrence of Tonsil Stones?

If you are prone to developing tonsil stones, these are a few tips to consider which can prevent this condition from recurring. Make changes in your diet pattern and cut down on dairy products to limit your intake of dietary calcium especially if you are lactose intolerant. Increased level of calcium leads to its deposition in the tonsil crevasses leading to the formation of calcified tonsilloliths. Dairy products also increase the buildup of mucus which is another element of tonsil stones. If you are prone to frequent and recurrent attacks of tonsil stones, it is advisable to completely remove dairy products from your diet. Remember, prevention is always better than cure! Take your meals atleast 30 minutes before bedtime as food particles lying around in the mouth have a tendency to accumulate in the tonsils while you sleep. Strictly follow a healthy oral regimen of brushing and flossing. Brush at least twice a day in the mornings and evenings. Gargle with an oxygenated mouthwash or saline solution after every meal to remove bacteria and food particles. Clean your tongue well with a tongue cleaner everyday after brushing to remove the microorganisms that reside on your tongue and also to clear any food particles if present.

Treatment Guidelines
Tonsil stones are not a dangerous health issue. But it can be annoying and disturbing to have something stuck up in your throat all the time. It can also cause pain, sore throats and get infected leading to tonsillitis. There are many therapeutic remedies to prevent and remove tonsil stones. Here, we give you an overview of some easy and natural methods that can be done by the patient itself at home. But remember, all methods are not equally effective. Choose one that suits your condition best. And make sure to consult a physician if your symptoms are not resolving or worsening.

Method 1 Oral Hygiene

A change in your oral hygiene regimen can prove extremely beneficial to combat this condition as poor oral health can fasten the formation of tonsil stones. Always have your food thirty minutes before bedtime as this allows food to pass completely through the throat and prevent accumulation. Stick to the brushing, flossing and mouth washing pattern twice a day, in the morning and at bedtime. Always remember to use a mouth wash that is sugar free and alcohol free. If you have bad breath, include lemons and avocado in your diet to prevent this. In chronic cases, the occasional use of an oxygenating spray is also advised to neutralize the anerobic sulfur-producing bacteria. Cut down on your intake of white sugar.

Method 2
Gargling
Personally, I would consider gargling to be a very efficient treatment method for tonsil stones. Though extremely popular in the Asian countries especially India, this natural remedy is yet to catch on in the West.

What is Gargling?
According to Wikipedia, gargling can be defined as the act in which one bubbles a liquid in his or her mouth. A mouthful of liquid is allowed to sit in the upper throat by tilting the head backwards and the air expelled from the lungs causes the bubbling of the liquid throughout the mouth and throat regions.

How does Gargling Help to Treat Tonsil Stones?

Gargling has always traditionally been used to treat sore throats. But when carried out by patients with tonsil stones, it helps to dislodge the hardened lumps from the throat due to the continuous flushing of the area. Gargling with medicinal substances is an added advantage as it helps to prevent infections. An important thing to note is that gargling should be done regularly for a period of time to be effective in flushing out the stones.

Substances that can be used for Gargling

Gargling is usually carried out for cleaning the throat but can be used for medicinal purposes also. Specific medications are available for this purpose but should only be used when prescribed by a certified medical practitioner. There are many natural substances with medicinal properties that can also be used for gargling. 10

1) Table salt Gargling with hypertonic salt solution is the best natural home remedy for tonsil stones. Salt functions as a natural dehydrator and draws out water by osmosis from the inflammations if your tonsils are infected. Continuous gargling with salt solution every day also helps to flush out the stones and cleanse the throat and mouth region. 2) Mouthwash A diluted solution of an antiseptic mouthwash can be used for gargling and is very effective to prevent and treat infections. Mint flavored mouthwashes are ideal to combat bad breath. 3) Hydrogen peroxide A solution containing equal amounts of hydrogen peroxide and water can also be used. This acid is extremely useful to kill bacteria and also to whiten teeth. But remember never to swallow this liquid as hydrogen peroxide is harmful if ingested. If you are a novice to the gargling method, practice using salt solution or a mouthwash before attempting to gargle with hydrogen peroxide. It is not advisable to let children gargle with this solution as hydrogen peroxide is poisonous. And never ever use concentrated hydrogen peroxide for gargling. Tip To prevent swallowing the liquid after gargling, close your mouth and exhale out the solution while lowering your head to spit out the contents. 4) Cayenne pepper Though this can sound unbelievable to most people, cayenne pepper has a medicinal effect on the body. It is beneficial to cure the pain due to a sore throat or tonsil stones as it numbs the nerves. If cayenne pepper is not available, hot paprika or white pepper can also be used instead; all these contain capsaicin which relieves pain and also possess anti viral properties. Note Do not take Cayenne pepper before surgery as it is a natural blood thinner. 5) Zingiber officinalis Are you wondering what this strange sounding thing is? It is nothing but ginger, which is extremely effective for gargling. Make a solution with fresh ginger root or ginger powder in water and gargle frequently. This is more useful if you have pain or soreness than to dislodge the stones. 6) Apple cider vinegar Dilute apple cider vinegar in a cup of hot water and use for gargling. It gives instant relief from throat pain due to the presence of stones. It is also useful in clearing out the tonsil crypts of any deposited material preventing the formation of tonsilloliths. 7) Lemon Using lemon in warm water for gargling is a traditional method for easing pain due to sore throats or tonsil stones.

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Note Rinse your mouth well with water after gargling with vinegar or lemon as they are acidic in nature and can harm your teeth enamel. 8) Grapefruit seed extract Gargling with this solution is an excellent remedy to treat and cure tonsil stones and also to prevent bad breath. Remember to gargle twice or thrice daily for positive results. 9) Wyethia tincture This is a homoeopathic medicine that can be used for gargling to remove tonsil stones.

Method 3
Cotton Swab
Cotton swabs can also be successfully used to remove tonsil stones if they are not too deeply embedded in the crypts. This method is only useful if you can control your gag reflex or you will end up coughing and vomiting.

Instructions
Step 1 Wet the swab with water and squeeze out the excess Step 2 Stand in front of a mirror and open your mouth wide. Use a pocket flashlight to see the back of your throat clearly Step 3 Apply gentle pressure on the tonsil crypts where you can see or feel the stones and sweep them out. But exercise caution not to push them deeper into the spaces. Also do not use too much force as this can cause bleeding. Step 4 Gargle and wash your mouth and throat with an oxygenating mouthwash once you have successfully removed the stones.

Method 4
Water Pik
Water Piks or curved tip syringes or water jet syringes are also employed to physically remove tonsilloliths. Water is filled in the syringe and applied at a high pressure into the tonsil crypts to flush out the stones. Lukewarm salt water is recommended to perform this

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procedure. This syringe has a curved tip to enable you to focus on the stone to be removed. After removal, the area can also be cleaned out using this. Do not employ a random squirting routine while using this apparatus. Instead, focus on one stone which can be seen clearly and apply the water jet. Remove a stone completely before trying to flush out the second one. Caution Care should be taken not to use a strong water current for irrigation as this can damage the sensitive tissues of the tonsils. It is also ideal to use plastic water jets than the battery operated ones as pressure control is better with the former. Also remember, no food containing dairy products should be consumed for the next 14 days to prevent reccurence and further deposition. Water piks can be employed twice or thrice to get rid of the stones if you are not able to remove all of them in the first instance. Stop using the apparatus if you notice bleeding, pain or soreness.

Method 5
Oral Irrigation
In this method, tonsil stones are removed by introducing a fluid into the nose and mouth at the same time. This simultaneous action from two different directions helps to get rid

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of the stones effectively. Make sure to get a good quality and FDA approved irrigator for this purpose. Steps Use lukewarm water to fill the irrigator. Open your mouth wide in front of a mirror and use a pen flashlight to see the insides of your mouth and throat clearly. (Remember, it is extremely important to see clearly when you irrigate or you will end up doing more harm to your tonsils). To begin with, it is ideal to set your irrigator at its lowest. It is dangerous to keep the machine at a higher setting as this can lead to bleeding and infection of the tonsils. Irrigate the crypts with the pulsating water from the machine to flush out the tnsilloliths. Finish by gargling with a suitable mouthwash.

A simple alternative to an oral irrigator is to use a 10ml syringe (which can be easily obtained from a local store). Fill the syringe with lukewarm salt solution and irrigate your tonsil crypts every day morning. This is a simple and cheap home remedy that has proven to be beneficial in many people.

Method 6
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic medications always focus on treating the person as a whole. However there are drugs available that can specifically act on tonsil stones. Some of them are; 1 2 3 4 Hepar Sulphuricum Antimonium Tartaricum Calcarea Carbonicum Ignatia Amara

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Method 7
Tonsillectomy
Tonsillectomy is an age old surgical procedure to remove ones tonsils. The complications of this surgery include bleeding and infection which may be hard to resolve and can lead to many undesirable problems especially in children. This surgery should be the last resort to remove tonsil stones. In the earlier days, tonsillectomy was a common procedure prescribed to treat this condition. Many people believed that it is easier to remove these glands than to deal with its diseases and complications. With the advent of modern medicine, doctors have come to realize the importance of tonsils in maintaining a healthy immune status. Hence this surgery has taken a backseat and is least recommended as a cure for tonsil stones today.

Method 8
Laser treatment
This is the latest method employed to treat tonsil stones that cannot be cured by any natural means. Laser resurfacing is slowly replacing tonsillectomy as the complications associated with the latter can be avoided. In this method, laser is used to smoothen out the surface of the tonsils, thus removing the tonsil crypts which are the pockets for the developing tonsil stones.

Facts and Myths about Tonsil Stones

Myth 1 Scraping out the tonsil stones using your fingers is an extremely effective method for removal of these. Fact False; though these stones can be removed by scraping with your fingers, it is highly inadvisable to do so as this can lead to infections which will actually worsen your problem. Myth 2 Bad oral hygiene can cause tonsil stones. Fact False; bad oral hygiene has not been proven to be a predisposing factor for developing tonsilloliths. But maintaining good oral health is immensely beneficial to control this condition. Myth 3 Do tonsil stones cause sore throat?

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Fact True; presence of tonsil stones can leave you with an uncomfortable feeling in your throat which causes coughing and soreness. Myth 4 Tonsillectomy is the best option for treating tonsil stones. Fact False; infact it should be the very last option for treating tonsil stones as tonsils are a valuable part of the bodys defense mechanism against harmful microorganisms and invading foreign particles. Hence removal of these can severely affect ones immune status. Myth 5 Gargling is only effective for sore throats and not for removing tonsil stones Fact False; Gargling is effective for sore throats as well for removing tonsil stones. When done regularly for a long period of time, gargling is an immensely effective method for flushing out the stones from the tonsil crypts. Myth 6 You can get rid of your bad breath after a tonsillectomy Fact False; in opposition to popular belief, you can still suffer from bad breath or halitosis after a tonsillectomy as there are sulfur-producing anaerobic bacteria beneath your tongue also which can cause bad breath. Myth 7 Are tonsil stones contagious? Fact False; tonsil stones are not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another. It is true that bacteria and other microorganisms can spread from person to person causing cold, sore throat or even tonsillitis. These can lead to an environment conducible for the formation of these stones but are not directly responsible for this condition. Myth 8 Antibiotics can cure tonsil stones Fact False; antibiotics are ineffective for the treatment of tonsil stones. They are only useful to treat infection and inflammation of the tonsils and do not have any action on the stones itself.

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Conclusion
Tonsil stones are a common occurrence and not necessarily harmful. These stones go unnoticed by most people unless obvious symptoms like bad breath are present which makes you sit up and take notice. It is not necessary to run out and remove your tonsils at the first indication of tonsil stones. Effective management of this condition is possible today with 100% natural methods. We bring you a complete set of natural treatments that you can carry out in the comfort of your home to prevent and cure tonsilloliths. Water Pik is an excellent tool that is very commonly used in the West to physically get rid of these stones. But I would personally recommend gargling over any other method because it is entirely harmless and can do only good. A wide variety of substances can be added to warm water and used for gargling. Select one that suits you and carry it out diligently for long term results. If medications are required, homeopathy has the answers as these medicines are safe and have little or no side-effects. Remember, surgery should be your last option; after all you need your tonsils to maintain a healthy immune status. Hope your internet search to get information about tonsil stones end here. This book is a sincere effort to help all those people who silently suffer from tonsil stones wondering what they should be doing for a cure. We have also listed out ways by which you can prevent these stones from coming back.

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Summary
Let us once again take a quick and brief look at how to prevent and cure tonsil stones 100% naturally. Take care of your diet: I cant stress more on the importance of your diet pattern as this is the best way to prevent the formation of tonsil stones. Minimize or stop the intake of dairy products if you are lactose intolerant and prone to developing tonsilloliths. Instead increase the consumption of dark green vegetables like spinach, turnips, etc. which are an excellent source of calcium. Walnuts, almonds, unrefined grains, sesame seeds, soya products, coconut milk, olive oil are also rich in calcium and can be used instead of cows milk and its products. Caution This diet pattern is not to be followed in children under the age of five. Consult a pediatrician if your young one suffers from tonsil stones. Brushing and Flossing: Strictly adhere to this routine every single day and you will never have to complain about tonsil stones and bad breath. Gargle, Gargle and Gargle: This natural remedy can work wonders for your tonsil stones if you are patient to do it regularly 2-3 times a day. Use a Water Pik: This is again an excellent tool to remove tonsilloliths if in the hands of an experienced user. Laser Treatment and Tonsillectomy: Keep this as your last option if nothing else cures your tonsil stones.

Thank You
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References
http://www.drgreene.com/homepage.html http://www.webmd.com/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Science http://www.ehow.com/ http://www.christinas-home-remedies.com/ask-expert.html http://yourtotalhealth.com/ http://healthysolutions.com/ http://WikiAnswers.com/ http://ezinearticles.com/ http://tonsilstones.com/ http://doctor.ndtv.com/

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