Peritonsillar Abscess

What's a Peritonsillar Abscess?

A peritonsillar abscess is an area of pus-filled tissue at the back of the mouth, next to one of the tonsils. The abscess can be very painful and can make it hard to open the mouth.

It can also cause swelling that can push the tonsil toward the uvula (the dangling fleshy object at the back of the mouth). This can block the throat, making it hard to swallow, speak, and sometimes even breathe.

If you think you have an abscess in the back of your throat, you need to see a doctor. A peritonsillar abscess that isn't treated can lead to more serious health problems.

What Causes Peritonsillar Abscesses?

Most peritonsillar abscesses are caused by the same bacteria that cause strep throat. Sometimes, other types of bacteria are involved.

Peritonsillar abscesses usually happen as a complication of tonsillitis. If the infection breaks out of a tonsil and gets into the space around it, an abscess can form. Luckily, peritonsillar abscesses aren't that common these days because doctors use antibiotics to treat tonsillitis.

Gum disease and smoking can increase a person's chances of developing an abscess.

What Are the Signs of a Peritonsillar Abscess?

Often, the first sign of a peritonsillar abscess is a sore throat. As the abscess develops, other symptoms start, such as: