With the vast and ever-expanding reach of the internet, it’s easier than ever to stumble upon content that leaves you feeling surprised, intrigued, or even a bit repulsed. The rise of social media platforms has made it possible for images and videos to go viral on a global scale, which means that content trends can emerge quickly, flooding our feeds with similar posts.

One area of online content that consistently captures attention involves the human body—specifically, the strange and often surprising things our bodies can do. You’ve likely come across viral videos of pimple popping (admittedly pretty gross), cyst draining (even grosser!), and earwax removal (yikes!). But there’s one phenomenon that’s less well-known: tonsil stones.

Before I came across a video on this subject, I hadn’t heard of tonsil stones before, so I was curious to learn more. I’m definitely someone who finds the body’s peculiarities fascinating, and though I wouldn’t say I enjoy watching these types of videos, they certainly have a strange allure. The viral trend of pimple popping videos, for example, drew me in, and I was intrigued when I saw a similar video about tonsil stones.

First, let’s address what tonsil stones actually are. In case you’re like me and have never encountered them, tonsil stones are small, hard, white or yellowish formations that form on your tonsils. These tiny stones aren’t usually painful or harmful, but they can cause discomfort and other symptoms, which is why some people choose to remove them. According to the Mayo Clinic, tonsil stones occur when debris, bacteria, food particles, and minerals get trapped in the tonsillar crypts. The tonsils are those oval-shaped masses of tissue in the back of your throat that play a role in fighting infections. But sometimes, debris gets caught in the tonsils, forming the little stones.

Though tonsil stones are more common than most people realize, they don’t always cause symptoms. In fact, many people have them without even knowing it. However, when symptoms do appear, they can include bad breath, sore throat, a cough, and sometimes an earache. It’s estimated that around 3 million Americans suffer from tonsil stones each year. Fortunately, getting rid of them is usually a relatively simple process.

For those dealing with tonsil stones, there are several home remedies that can help. Gargling with salt water is a popular method that can loosen the stones and make them easier to remove. Some people also use a cotton swab or another gentle object to help dislodge the stones manually. While it might sound a bit uncomfortable, it’s generally an effective way to get rid of them.

Interestingly, it’s also possible for a strong cough to loosen the tonsil stones, pushing them out on their own. Some people find that after a good coughing session, the stones come right out. The video I came across showing the removal of a tonsil stone is both graphic and fascinating, and it has been viewed by millions. If you’re squeamish, you might want to think twice before watching it, but for those who are curious, it certainly provides a clear view of how the process works.

While tonsil stones aren’t usually a serious medical issue, it’s understandable why some people would want to remove them. The discomfort they cause—along with the potential for bad breath—can lead many to seek ways to manage or eliminate them. The fact that so many people experience tonsil stones, yet are unaware of their existence, is a reminder of how much there is to learn about the human body. These little stones are just one of many quirky things our bodies do that remain largely under the radar until something goes viral.

If you’re someone who’s never heard of tonsil stones or have never experienced them yourself, you’re definitely not alone. But now that you know a little more about them, you might be more likely to recognize the symptoms or find relief if you ever encounter them. And who knows? Maybe this information will help you out the next time you watch a viral video and wonder what exactly those strange little white stones are.

Have you ever dealt with tonsil stones? Or did you learn about them just now? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts or experiences!