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Tonsil flushing
tonsil flushing · tonsil irrigation · tonsil stone removal · tonsil crypt cleaning
The doctor flushes your tonsils with a medicated solution. This washes out tonsil stones and pus.
For chronic tonsillitis, frequent sore throats, tonsil stones, and bad breath.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 15 minutes; often a course of several sessions is given
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Best not to eat for 1 to 2 hours before, to avoid nausea.
- Afterward. Do not plan to eat right after. You are usually told to wait.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Your referral, if you have one
How it goes
- You sit in the chair
- Your throat may be numbed with a spray
- The doctor flushes the tonsils with a special syringe or device
- The solution washes out the stones
- You spit the solution into a tray
- Sometimes medicine is applied to the tonsils
What you'll feel
- An urge to gag
- Unpleasant, but usually not painful
- A slightly scratchy throat afterward
Afterwards
- Do not eat or drink for about an hour, or as your doctor says
- Finish the full course, if one is prescribed
Contact a doctor straight away if
- High fever, severe throat pain on one side, or trouble opening your mouth: see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Can I flush my tonsils at home?
Gargling may help, but a doctor can wash out the stones properly.
Will this help me avoid having my tonsils removed?
It often helps. Whether surgery is needed is the doctor's decision.