Disgusting medical videos are extremely popular on YouTube these days. “Pimple popping, cyst draining, earwax removal, back cracking, foot callus scraping—you name it, and millions of people want to see it on film.”

Tonsil stones are no exception. These “little, pebble-like growths” form inside the throat and are removed from tonsils. Watching the process is oddly satisfying, similar to pimple popping.

For those unfamiliar, “The Mayo Clinic explains that your tonsils are actually part of your immune system.” They help fight infections but also have “eerie-sounding cavities known as tonsillar crypts.” If these crypts are deep, “food or mucus can become trapped inside,” leading to tonsil stones.

Videos showing tonsil stone removal are a hit. One clip, praised as “short, sweet, and to the point,” has over 15 million views.

The fascination with these medical procedures reflects a growing audience seeking gross yet satisfying content.