White spots on your throat can be unsettling, prompting questions about their cause. These spots are a common symptom that can point to various underlying conditions, ranging from minor irritations to infections. Understanding the potential reasons behind their appearance can help you recognize when to seek professional medical advice. This article outlines common causes of white spots on the throat.
Common Causes of White Spots
White spots on the throat often indicate an infection or other specific conditions. Each cause presents with distinct characteristics.
Strep throat, a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, often leads to white patches, spots, or streaks of pus on the tonsils and throat. The tonsils may also appear red and swollen. Tiny, red spots, known as petechiae, can develop on the roof of the mouth with strep throat.
Oral thrush, or oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans yeast. This condition manifests as creamy white, slightly raised patches or spots on the tongue and inner cheeks, which may spread to the roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils, or the back of the throat. These patches may resemble cottage cheese and can cause redness, burning, or soreness, and may cause difficulty eating or swallowing.
Tonsillitis refers to the inflammation of the tonsils, which can be caused by either viral or bacterial infections. When tonsillitis occurs, the tonsils become visibly red and swollen, and they may have a white, yellow, or gray coating or distinct white spots, which can be pus-filled.
Mononucleosis, often called “mono” or the “kissing disease,” is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Individuals with mono develop white patches of pus on and around the tonsils. The throat may appear very red, and these white spots can initially resemble strep throat.
Tonsil stones, medically known as tonsilloliths, are small, hardened deposits that form in the natural crevices or crypts of the tonsils. These stones are composed of calcified debris, including food particles, mucus, and bacteria, and appear as small white or yellowish pebbles or dots on or within the tonsils. While harmless, they can cause a sensation of something being stuck in the throat.
Other Symptoms to Note
White spots on the throat are often accompanied by other symptoms that can help identify the underlying cause. A sore throat is a common symptom, often making swallowing uncomfortable or painful.
Fever is another indicator, suggesting the body is fighting an infection. Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, can also be present.
Individuals may experience difficulty swallowing, body aches, or general malaise. Bad breath can also be a noticeable symptom, especially in cases involving tonsil stones where bacteria can thrive on trapped debris.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare professional if you notice white spots on your throat, as prompt diagnosis can prevent potential complications. You should seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over several days.
A high fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing or swallowing requires immediate medical attention. If you are unsure of the cause or if the white spots are accompanied by signs of dehydration, seek medical evaluation.
How White Spots Are Diagnosed and Treated
Healthcare providers begin diagnosis of white spots on the throat with a physical examination, inspecting the throat and feeling the lymph nodes in the neck for swelling or tenderness. A common diagnostic tool is a throat swab, which collects a sample from the throat for laboratory testing to identify bacterial or fungal infections.
Treatment approaches vary depending on the identified cause. Bacterial infections, such as strep throat, are treated with antibiotics, like penicillin or amoxicillin. For fungal infections like oral thrush, antifungal medications are prescribed, often as a solution or oral pills. Viral infections, including mononucleosis and most cases of tonsillitis, do not respond to antibiotics and require supportive care, such as rest and fluids. Tonsil stones do not require medical treatment and can be dislodged with gargling or gentle removal, though larger or symptomatic stones may need professional removal.