Symptoms of tonsil stones vary, but they are often accompanied by bad breath, sore throat, and pain with swallowing. In more severe cases, they can also cause pain in the ears because they can block the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. This tube helps to equalize air pressure in the ear. People can also experience a mild cough. There are many home remedies to treat tonsil stones.