Is Tonsil Stones Contagious?
While there is always the possibility of passing bacteria and germs to another person, it is not possible to catch tonsils stones directly from another person. There are several reasons for this, many of which have to do with our own individual states of health. Here are some possible examples.
First, there is not much chance of direct contact with the tonsils stones. Essentially, in order to achieve direct contact, it would be necessary to use the fingers or a swab to come in contact with the stones, then use swabs or those same fingers to attempt to deposit the bacteria onto your tonsils. The gag reflex would prevent most of us from even attempting such a thing, so the chances of contamination from this sort of activity is slim.
However, people do tend to wonder if the disease can be transferred through other means, such as a nice long romantic kiss with someone who currently has the stones. There is some credence to this concern. After all, intense and long open-mouthed kisses do allow for the exchange of bacteria and saliva between the two mouths concerned.
While the chances of dislodging a tonsil stone, transferring it to the other mouth, and working it into position on a tonsil are highly unlikely, it is feasible that bacteria may transfer and set up with a willing host.
As for developing tonsils stones as a result of airborne elements expelled somebody else, the risk is similar in being contaminated than with any other type of virus. Using simple precautions such as refraining from kissing, washing the hands and face immediately if someone coughs or sneezes on you, and just keeping yourself clean should do the trick.
At the same time, do not use forks, spoons, or other eating utensils after someone with tonsils stones has just used them. Make sure they are cleaned thoroughly before they are used again.
Tags: tonsil stones, Tonsilloliths