Mild Throat Pain: Tonsil Stones or Something More?

Slight pain in the tonsils?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask you about some symptoms I've been experiencing.
A few days ago, I felt a slight discomfort on the right side of my throat or tonsil, and later I expelled a yellowish substance, which seemed to relieve the discomfort.
I looked it up online and it seems to be called tonsil stones.
Last night, I started to feel a slight pain on the left side of my throat where the tonsil is located.
I currently do not have a fever, but I do have a runny nose.
My family mentioned that since I haven't been going out, it shouldn't be a problem, and that doing a rapid test might be risky.

I checked my throat, and although it doesn't feel swollen, I notice a slight throbbing sensation on both sides of my lower jaw when I move my tongue.
I'm not sure if this is normal muscle activity or if a slight cold could cause this throbbing sensation, even though it feels like muscle.
After reading online that unilateral pain could be a symptom of tonsil cancer, I became more anxious and don't know what to do.
Could my symptoms possibly be caused by a cold? I have nasal discharge and phlegm, especially in the morning, which is slightly yellow.

I wonder if this is related to staying up late, as I feel like I tend to catch a cold more easily after a night of insufficient sleep.
Additionally, I would like to ask if it would be a problem to have blood drawn before getting vaccinated, or if it would be more appropriate to do them on different days.
Thank you, Doctor.

Gina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/05

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the condition you described is likely caused by tonsillitis, which is usually triggered by a cold.
The chance of cancer is very low.
Additionally, some individuals may experience tonsillitis due to factors such as lack of sleep, stress leading to a weakened immune system, or allergies.
As for the vaccine and blood tests, there should be no correlation; however, some people may experience fever or discomfort as complications after vaccination.
It is recommended to have a blood test done before getting vaccinated.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/06/05

More Info

Understanding mild throat pain can be quite complex, especially when symptoms such as discomfort in the tonsils or throat are involved. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths. These are calcified debris that can form in the crevices of the tonsils and can lead to mild discomfort, a sensation of something being stuck, or even bad breath. The yellowish substance you mentioned could indeed be a tonsil stone that you expelled.

Tonsil stones are relatively common and can occur in individuals with chronic tonsillitis or enlarged tonsils. They are typically not serious and can often be managed with good oral hygiene practices. Gargling with salt water, staying hydrated, and using a water flosser can help dislodge these stones and alleviate discomfort. However, if you experience recurrent tonsil stones or significant pain, it may be worth discussing with an ENT specialist, as they can provide further evaluation and treatment options.

Your mention of experiencing mild pain on the left side of your throat and nasal symptoms such as a runny nose suggests that you might also be dealing with a mild upper respiratory infection or even allergies. Viral infections can lead to inflammation in the throat, which can cause discomfort and may be accompanied by nasal congestion or discharge. The presence of yellow mucus can indicate a viral infection, but it can also occur with bacterial infections or allergies.
Regarding your concern about unilateral throat pain being a symptom of something more serious, such as tonsil cancer, it is important to remember that while persistent pain, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty swallowing, significant weight loss, or a noticeable lump, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, isolated mild pain is often not indicative of cancer.
Your observation about feeling more susceptible to colds after staying up late is valid; lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making you more prone to infections. Ensuring you get adequate rest, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress can all contribute to better overall health and resilience against infections.

As for your question regarding vaccinations and blood tests, it is generally advisable to space out these procedures. If you are planning to receive a vaccine, it is best to wait at least a few days after any blood tests to ensure that your immune response to the vaccine is not compromised. This is particularly important if the blood test is related to an infection or illness, as your body may be in a different state of readiness to respond to the vaccine.

In summary, your symptoms may be related to tonsil stones or a mild upper respiratory infection, and while it is always wise to be vigilant about changes in your health, the likelihood of serious conditions like cancer is low based on your description. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Additionally, consider maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system and consult with your healthcare provider regarding the timing of vaccinations and blood tests.

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