Peritonsil abscess & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is a peritonsil abscess?

Peritonsil abscess is the formation of abscesses or pus in the tonsils (tonsils) caused by a bacterial infection. This festering tonsil condition is a complication of inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis) that is not treated properly.

The formation of pus can be seen from the lumps around the tonsils. Pus in the tonsils forms within 2-8 days as a result of a bacterial infection that causes a stap, strep throat (Streptococcus) infection and Haemophilus influenzae namely the cause of pneumonia and meningitis.

Treatment for peritonsil abscess requires antibiotic treatment from a doctor or hospitalization if accompanied by symptoms of severe dehydration.

How common is this disease?

Peritonsil abscesses are most common in children, adolescents and young adults. In addition, people who smoke are more prone to developing this disease.

This disease also includes disturbances that are often experienced during the transition season (transition from rainy and dry seasons). The reason is, the bacteria that cause the infection are more easily transmitted at the changing conditions of this season.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of a peritonsil abscess?

The symptoms of a peritonsil abscess are similar to those of strep throat or inflammation of the tonsils. What distinguishes it is the appearance of a pus-filled lump in the back of your throat. The lump looks like a boil that is whitish in color.

Other possible accompanying peritonsil abscess symptoms include:

• Inflammation of the tonsils (one or both)
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty opening your mouth wide
• Sore throat when swallowing
• Drooling (difficulty swallowing saliva)
• Swelling on the face or neck
• Headache
• Sore throat (which is more severe on one side)
• Swollen glands in the throat or jaw (tender to the touch and ear pain on the side of the throat that has an infection
• Hoarse or hoarse voice
• Bad breath

If you experience the signs and symptoms above, you should immediately go to a doctor to see your doctor. The condition of the festering tonsils requires immediate treatment from a doctor.

What are the complications of a peritonsil abscess?

Although they are rare, peritonsil abscesses can cause a number of more serious disorders such as:

• Lung infection
• Airway obstruction
• Infection that spreads to the throat, mouth, neck and chest
• The abscess lump burst

If the lump is not treated promptly, it can lead to infection throughout the body. These pus-filled lumps can also further narrow the airway.

Cause

What causes peritonsil abscess?

Peritonsil abscess usually presents as a complication of tonsillitis. An abscess lump can slowly form if the inflammatory infection of the tonsils spreads to the surrounding area.

However, this incident is becoming increasingly rare thanks to the use of antibiotics as the first treatment for sore throat and tonsils.

According to a study from the American Family Physician, mononucleosis (glandular fever) can cause peritonsil abscesses. Likewise with bacterial infections of the teeth and gums.

Some types of bacterial infections that can cause pus to form in the tonsils are:

• Staphylococcus aureus namely the cause of disease staph
• Haemophilus influenzae namely the cause of pneumonia and meningitis
• Group A hemolytic streptococci (GAS) or Streptococci are the causes strep throat or sore throat (pharyngitis) due to a bacterial infection

In rare cases, pus can grow without being preceded by any infection. Generally this is caused by inflammation of the Weber's glands, which are located just under the tongue to produce saliva.

Diagnosis

How do doctors diagnose this disease?

At first, the doctor will examine your mouth and throat. The doctor may also take a sample of throat tissue or refer you for blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. Signs of a peritonsil abscess include:

• Swelling on one side of the throat
• Swelling of the roof of the mouth
• The throat and neck are swollen red
• Swollen lymph glands

Your doctor may refer you for a CT scan to observe the swelling more deeply. The doctor may also take a fluid sample from the abscess using a needle, to check for infection.

Diagnosis & Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is a peritonsil abscess treated?

Peritonsil abscess is most commonly treated with a prescription for antibiotics for laryngitis. The doctor can also flatten the lump by draining the fluid inside to speed up recovery. Usually, this procedure is performed by an ENT surgeon.

If you are unable to eat or drink, you may receive fluids intravenously. Your doctor may also prescribe a pain reliever if you are in a lot of pain, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or paracetamol.

When the abscess continues to recur, your doctor may recommend that you remove the tonsils surgically to avoid the risk of infection recurring in the future.

Home Remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies for peritonsil abscess?

The following lifestyle changes you can make to treat tonsillitis, which causes pus to form:

• Keep your teeth and mouth clean by regularly brushing your teeth twice a day and gargling with mouthwash.
• Also routinely see the dentist every 6 months.
• Quit smoking.

Please discuss with your doctor for more information. If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.