What Causes White Spots on the Throat: Symptoms, and Treatment

White spots on the throat can be concerning, as they often indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. These spots can appear on the tonsils, the back of the throat, or even on the tongue. They may result from fungal, bacterial, or viral infections. While some causes are benign, others might require medical intervention.

White spots on the throat

In this article, I'll provide you with comprehensive facts about common causes, symptoms, and available treatments for white spots on the throat.

If you experience white spots on your throat or tonsils, it typically results from an infection. A short-term irritation that is mild might be a symptom of another condition or infection. Usually, these symptoms happen. Other symptoms that patients experience with sore throats are:

• Difficulty swelling
• Fever
• Nasal congestion
• Throat pain
• White spots on your tonsils (tonsils are located inside your throat)

I will suggest you consult with your health experts, as they can diagnose the accurate cause of these white spots, and keep reading to explore more facts about white spots on the throat.

Common causes of white spots on the throat

White spots on the throat might be a result of many types of infection, such as viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. The most common and important causes are:

1. Strep throat

Strep throat infection may cause sore throat. While strep throat is caused by specific bacteria named streptococcal bacteria, it leads to white patches or spots on your sore throat, fever, difficulty swelling, and sore throat.

2. Oral thrush

Oral thrush, or oropharyngeal candidiasis, is the yeast or fungal infection responsible for causing white spots on the throat and typically occurs in your throat, tongue, as well as in the mouth lining. Oral thrush is more common in babies and immunocompromised people.

3.Pharyngitis

Inflammation of the pharynx can lead to white spots on the back of the throat, along with other symptoms such as soreness and pain.

4. Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, also known as "mono" or the "kissing disease," can cause white spots on the throat, along with fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.

5. Tonsils stones

Small, calcified masses that form in the crevices of the tonsils and tonsil stones can cause white spots and discomfort.

6. Viral infection

Viruses like the Epstein-Barr virus or the human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to white spots during infection. Genital herpes (HSV-2) is an STI (sexually transmitted infection) that spreads through skin-to-skin contact. Oral herpes (HSV-1) may spread through oral sex, kissing, or sharing utensils with someone who has an active infection.

Common symptoms

With white spots on the throat, you may have some other symptoms that may help in diagnosis. These symptoms are:

• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
• White spots on tonsils
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Nasal congestion

I show you the symptoms according to their causative agent, so please keep reading and connecting with me.

Symptoms of mono

Other than white spots on your throat, Mono may cause a number of symptoms, such as

• Fatigue
• Enlarged tonsils
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes

Strep throat symptoms

Strep throat is a result of bacterial infection, and symptoms may include:

• Pain when swallowing
• Fever
• Swollen neck glands
• Swelling and redness of your tonsils or throat
• Headache
• Vomiting and nausea
• Rash
• Abdominal pain

Symptoms of oral thrush:

A patient with oral thrush has other symptoms other than white spots on the throat, including:

• Sore throat
• Redness
• Pain while swallowing

Oral and genital herpes symptoms:

A prevalent sign of oral herpes (HSV-1) is the appearance of a cold sore on the lip. For genital herpes (HSV-2), a sore in the genital region is the most typical manifestation. In certain instances, these infections might develop without noticeable symptoms. Furthermore, both forms of herpes can lead to the emergence of white spots or sores on the throat and tonsils. During the initial infection episode, there could be additional symptoms that are more commonly experienced. These symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms
• Itching or tingling in the area of your sores
• Urinary symptoms (HSV-2)
• Sore throat

Treatment for white spots on the throat

Depending on the root cause of your white spots, treatment might not be necessary. For instance, if a viral infection is at play, the spots could resolve on their own. In cases where yeast or bacterial infections are the culprits, a healthcare professional might prescribe antifungal medications or antibiotics.

Treating strep throat

 A conclusive diagnosis of strep throat requires a throat culture. If you're diagnosed with strep throat, your doctor will prescribe antibiotic medication. Additionally, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) could be recommended to alleviate pain, swelling, and fever.

Untreated strep throat might lead to serious complications such as acute rheumatic fever or peritonsillar abscess.

Treating mononucleosis (Mono)

Monotherapy aims to ease symptoms. Antibiotics may be necessary for secondary infections. Rest is essential if you have mono, along with using over-the-counter pain relievers to ease headaches, fevers, or sore throats. For severe symptoms, your doctor might prescribe oral steroid medication.

Treating oral thrush

For mild oral thrush, a doctor is likely to prescribe antifungal medication to swish around your mouth and swallow. This could include medications like clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and nystatin (Nystop, Nyamyc, Nyata). Moderate to severe infections might require oral medications like fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole (Sporanox).

In the case of infants with oral thrush, liquid antifungal medication is suitable. Nursing mothers might be advised to apply antifungal creams to their nipples and areolae before breastfeeding their babies.

Treating oral and genital herpes

Herpes lacks a cure. Your health experts might prescribe you antiviral medications such as acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), or famciclovir (Famvir). Topical anesthetics like lidocaine (LMX 4, LMX 5, AneCream, RectiCare, RectaSmoothe) could help mitigate throat discomfort.

When to seek medical help

If you notice persistent white spots, experience severe pain, have difficulty breathing, or develop a high fever, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

What to expect when visiting your health expert?

If you observe that the white spots persist without resolving naturally, it's advisable to schedule an appointment with a doctor, even if they aren't causing discomfort. If you don't currently have a primary care physician, the Healthline Find Care tool is a valuable resource to locate a healthcare provider in your vicinity.

The diagnostic process might involve a doctor examining your throat and conducting a brief physical assessment. This could encompass inquiries about your health history and any symptoms you've encountered. Additionally, the doctor might request lab tests such as blood tests and cultures. Identifying the underlying cause of the white spots in your throat is crucial for the doctor to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Prevention strategies

Effective preventive measures can potentially stop the development of white spots. By taking proactive steps, you can reduce the chances of meeting conditions that lead to white spots. Employing these strategies can prove beneficial in safeguarding your well-being. For instance, embracing simple hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, can substantially diminish the risk of contracting various viral infections. Additionally, I will show you how each specific condition has its own set of preventive actions.

Preventing strep throat

Preventing strep throat aligns with strategies for averting other viral infections: 

• Maintain regular hand hygiene
• Cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing
• Minimize touching your face 

Since strep throat spreads via respiratory droplets, refraining from sharing drinks or utensils with others can reduce transmission risk.

Preventing mono

Since mono is transmitted through saliva, it's important to limit sharing of utensils, drinks, and containers. For instance, opting to carry individual water bottles on a hike instead of sharing one with a friend can help lower the risk of mono transmission.

Preventing oral thrush

Effective oral thrush prevention revolves around adhering to sound dental hygiene practices:

• Regularly brush your teeth
• Floss to maintain oral hygiene
• Rinse your mouth after meals
• Utilize mouthwash for added cleanliness

Since infants are often affected by thrush, diligent cleaning of pacifiers between uses is essential. Formula-fed infants should have their bottlenecks washed between feedings.

Preventing oral and genital herpes

Utilizing barrier methods like condoms during sexual activity can serve as a preventive measure against herpes and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For individuals experiencing recurrent outbreaks of HSV-2, daily suppressive medication could potentially decrease the likelihood of transmitting the infection to a partner.

Conclusion

White spots on the throat can be a sign of various conditions, ranging from minor infections to more serious issues. If you're experiencing persistent white spots or severe symptoms like severe pain or high fever, I recommend you consult your health experts for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help alleviate discomfort and ensure your overall well-being.