Here’s what you need to know about tonsil stones – the weird pimple-like growths in your throat

Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are formed when debris like food particles, dead cells, and bacteria become trapped in the tonsils and harden over time. While mostly harmless, they can cause unpleasant symptoms such as bad breath, sore throats, coughing, or even ear pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, around 3 million Americans experience tonsil stones each year, although many don’t realize they have them because they often produce no symptoms.