Abscess in Throat
An abscess is known as a Peritonsillar Abscess. It often develops from an untreated tonsillitis. It can occur in both children and adults. It is characterized by the presence of a pus-filled sac at the back of the throat, usually at the back of the tonsils. Many of the other symptoms can appear 2 to 8 days before the abscess appears.
The abscess is observable with throat visualization. Some of the most common symptoms of a peritonsillar abscess include the following.
- Pain. The pain may be worse with swallowing. In kids, there may be an increased frequency of swallowing. They may also appear to cringe with each swallow.
- Inflamed Tonsils. They appear red and enlarged with examination.
- Visible Abscess at the Back of the Throat
- Fever. The patient may also experience chills with very high fever.
In kids, parents may observe the following symptoms:
- Lack of sleep. The pain could be interrupting sleep in kids.
- Anorexia. Swallowing is painful so the kids refuse to eat.
- Irritability
What Causes Abscess in Throat
A peritonsillar abscess often develops gradually.
Some of the most common causes of a peritonsillar abscess include:
- An untreated bacterial tonsillitis
- A past inappropriately treated infection. Patients who do not follow scheduled medication run the risk of developing a throat abscess with their subsequent infection.
The most common microbial causes of a peritonsillar abscess include:
- Streptococci
- Staphylococci
- Hemophilus
Abscess in Throat Treatment
The following are the common treatment methods for peritonsillar abscess or throat abscess.
- Incision and Drainage (I&D). This is a surgical procedure that can be done outpatient, depending on the location and the size of the abscess. The main goal of this therapy is to reduce the amount of pain experienced by the patient, it does this by relieving pressure.
- Antibiotics. Most abscesses are caused by streptococcal infections. Patients may be placed in a treatment schedule. It is important to finish the schedule as instructed by the physician to prevent recurring infections and complications.
- Pain Medication. This is given to make patients more comfortable.
Other possible treatment methods include:
- Fluid replacement therapy
- Anti-pyretic. This is given to patients who have a fever.
- Nutritional Therapy. This is done for kids who refuse to eat because of the pain caused by the condition.
If the peritonsillar abscess is associated with chronic tonsillitis, doctors may recommend that patients get a tonsillectomy.