Peritonsillar Abscess

When To Call A Professional

Call your doctor if:

• You have a severe sore throat, especially with fever, or have been exposed to someone with strep throat

• You have a sore throat combined with difficulty swallowing, change in voice or swelling of the face

If you have been treated for a peritonsillar abscess, but you still have symptoms after two to three days, visit your doctor again.

Prognosis

After treatment, the outlook is usually excellent. Peritonsillar abscess can come back, however. Possible complications of a severe abscess include pneumonia, fluid around the lungs or heart, airway obstruction and skin infection of the neck or jaw.

Additional Info

American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery One Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314-3357 Phone: (703) 836-4444 http://www.entnet.org/