Peritonsillar Abscess
A Peritonsillar abscess [4] is an infection that forms a walled-off collection of pus behind or close to one of your tonsils. It usually starts as a bacterial tonsillitis complication and is more common in teenagers.
The side of the tonsil that is affected normally experiences considerably worse pain, though a peritonsillar abscess can produce widespread throat pain as well.
Additional indications of a peritonsillar abscess include:
- difficulty opening your lips
- fever
- exhaustion
- difficulty speaking
- foul breath
- a quiet, muffled voice
The condition requires immediate medical attention. Your doctor will probably drain pus from the affected area by making a small incision or using a needle. Once the abscess is drained, you may also be prescribed antibiotic therapy.