white lumps at back of throat?

Does anyone have any idea what causes these? Sort of white/creamy colour sometimes smell like cheese (uggh). I used to cough them up every now and again. I don't any more, but often have the feeling one's there, though I can't get it out. Now my daughter has them occasionally, and I'm wondering if its candida related. I'm concerned for her, as I've had my health problems, and would not want her to have the same (mainly bulimia and crohns disease). If you could shed some light on this I'd be grateful, thanks.