Question 1

what is peritonsillar abscess?

Accepted Answer

Infection: A peritonsillar abscess is an infection around the tonsils an is sometimes a complication of tonsillitis.

Question 2

what does peritonsillar abscess actually mean?

Accepted Answer

Peritonsillar absces: Peritonsillar abscess describes a collection of pus that has collected behind an infected tonsil.

Question 3

how to tell if i have a "peritonsillar abscess"?

Accepted Answer

Peritonsillar absces: A peritonsillar abscess is a very specific problem and involves a collection of pus behind the tonsil, nearly always on one side, although I have seen abscesses on both sides at the same time.  This is rare, though.  The classic symptoms include severe throat pain on the side of the abscess, a "hot potato voice", deviation of the uvula to the opposite side as the abscess. You need an ENT to look.

Question 4

what are the most common symptoms of peritonsillar abscess?

Accepted Answer

Peritonsilar abscess: Uvula deviation (displaced to the side) cannot swallow, shortness of breath, drooling, gooffy voice, death due to airway/throat obstruction. Needs immediate attention.

Question 5

what is the definition or description of: peritonsillar abscess?

Accepted Answer

Peritonsillar absces: This is an abscess that forms in the space between the tonsil and the pharyngeal wall. They are usually painful and cause difficulty swallowing. In severe cases they can cause breathing problems. The often respond to simple needle drainage and antibiotics. Recurrent cases generally result in tonsillectomy.

Question 6

should i go to emergency if i know i have a peritonsillar abscess?

Accepted Answer

Yes: You should go to the er. I presume your regular doctor does not have office hours currently. Depending on the extent of your peritonsillar abscess, it may need incision and drainage. Intravenous hydration and antibiotics may be beneficial as well.

Question 7

if you have a peritonsillar abscess how likely are you to have it happen again?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Peritonsillar abscess frequently treated with oral, sometimes IV antibiotics,  
Sometimes patients need surgery to drain the abscess.  
Hard to predict potential for recurrence.  Ask your ENT,
Feel better

Question 8

is a peritonsillar abscess contagious?

Accepted Answer

Depends: A peritonsillar abscess is a serious complication of an acute tonsillitis.  It is not that the abscess is contagious, but that the etiology of the tonsillitis, if is viral or bacterial can be contagious.

Question 9

how long is a peritonsillar abscess contagious?

Accepted Answer

Ask the French: Probably more important to get that darned thing drained so you don't develop serious complications. And as far as being "contageous,"you've probably got residual inflammation for a few days after it is drained, so as long as you don't cough in someone's face or do any French kissing you won't pass it on. It may recur if no antibiotics are taken (or even with) so keep an "eye" on it for a while

Question 10

my peritonsillar abscess just drained, what do i do now?

Accepted Answer

See the MD: See your ENT md for evaluation and tx options. Do not ignore this infection.

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Causes of peritonsillar abscess

A member asked:

What is peritonsillar abscess?

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What does peritonsillar abscess actually mean?

A member asked:

How to tell if i have a "peritonsillar abscess"?

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What are the most common symptoms of peritonsillar abscess?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: peritonsillar abscess?

A member asked:

Should i go to emergency if i know i have a peritonsillar abscess?

A member asked:

If you have a peritonsillar abscess how likely are you to have it happen again?

A member asked:

Is a peritonsillar abscess contagious?

A member asked:

How long is a peritonsillar abscess contagious?

A member asked:

My peritonsillar abscess just drained, what do i do now?

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