When white spots appear on the throat, it is natural to wonder about their cause, especially with widespread health concerns like COVID-19. Understanding the potential reasons behind these spots can help alleviate anxiety and guide appropriate next steps.
COVID-19 and White Spots
White spots on the throat are not a typical or direct symptom of COVID-19. While a sore throat is a common symptom, it usually does not involve visible white spots or pus on the tonsils. COVID-19 primarily manifests with respiratory symptoms like cough, difficulty breathing, and nasal congestion. Although some studies noted white spots in individuals with the Omicron variant, these instances are not broadly characteristic of COVID-19.
Common Causes of White Spots
White spots on the throat are frequently a sign of infection, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal. These spots often appear on the tonsils or the back of the throat.
Strep throat, a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, commonly leads to white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils. This infection presents with a sudden sore throat, pain when swallowing, and a fever.
Tonsillitis, inflammation of the tonsils, can also cause white or yellow coating or patches. While viruses are the most common cause, bacterial infections can also be responsible. Symptoms often include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans. This condition results in creamy white patches that can appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils, and back of the throat. These patches may resemble cottage cheese and can cause soreness or a cotton-like feeling.
Mononucleosis, a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), can also cause white patches on the tonsils. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits. The sore throat can be severe and may include white patches or pus on the tonsils, sometimes making it difficult to distinguish from strep throat.
When to Consult a Doctor
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you notice white spots on your throat, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Medical evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause and ensure appropriate treatment.
Seek medical attention if white spots persist for several days, or are accompanied by a high fever, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. If you suspect strep throat or another bacterial infection, prompt medical care is necessary, as untreated bacterial infections can lead to complications. Individuals who are immunocompromised or have existing health conditions should consult a doctor without delay.