The internet is filled with all kinds of content—some shocking, some fascinating, and some downright strange. With social media making it easier than ever to share videos and photos, trends come and go quickly, often focusing on things that many people find oddly interesting.
One topic that seems to keep people hooked is anything related to the human body. From pimple popping to cyst draining and even earwax removal, these types of videos tend to go viral. But there’s another one you might not have heard of—tonsil stones.
Before coming across a video about them, I had no idea what they were. Maybe you’ve heard of them, or maybe this is new information for you too. Either way, let’s break it down.
According to the Mayo Clinic, tonsil stones are small, hard formations that develop in the crevices of the tonsils. They can be white or yellow in color and, while they might look unpleasant, they aren’t usually harmful or painful. In most cases, they can be treated at home.
These stones form when debris, bacteria, or even minerals like calcium get trapped in the tonsils. Over time, this material hardens, creating small lumps. While some people don’t experience any symptoms, others might notice bad breath, a sore throat, coughing, or even an earache.
You might be surprised to learn that tonsil stones are fairly common. Reports suggest that around 3 million people in the U.S. deal with them each year. The good news is that removing them is usually simple. Many people gargle with salt water or use a cotton swab to dislodge them. Sometimes, even a strong cough is enough to shake them loose.
There are plenty of videos online showing people removing their tonsil stones, and some of them have millions of views. If you’re curious, you can check them out—but be warned, they can be a bit graphic. Whether you find it fascinating or unsettling, it’s just another example of how the internet never runs out of surprising content.