Overview of Quinsy Tonsillitis

Quinsy also known as Peritonsillar Abscess, is a rare and painful complication of acute tonsillitis, where pus collects near the tonsils, usually on one side. It often follows a severe or untreated tonsil infection. This condition can cause difficulty in swallowing, speaking, and sometimes breathing. Unlike simple tonsillitis, Quinsy requires urgent medical attention, as the infection can spread to deeper tissues. Recognizing early tonsillitis symptoms, especially swollen tonsils, white spots in the throat or a sore throat that worsens on one side, is crucial to prevent it from progressing to Quinsy.

Types of Quinsy Tonsillitis

1. Unilateral Peritonsillar Abscess: The most common type; pus collects around one tonsil, causing severe swelling on that side.

2. Bilateral Peritonsillar Abscess: Rare and more serious; affects both sides of the throat and may lead to airway obstruction.

3. Peritonsillar Cellulitis: A pre-abscess condition with severe inflammation but no pus formation yet.

Symptoms of Quinsy Tonsillitis

Severe sore throat, often worse on one side

Swollen tonsils with or without white spots

Pain while swallowing or speaking

Muffled or hoarse voice ("hot potato voice")

Fever, chills and body ache

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Trismus (difficulty opening the mouth)

Bad breath or foul-smelling saliva

Pain in the ear on the affected side

Causes of Quinsy Tonsillitis

Untreated or recurrent tonsillitis

Bacterial infections, especially Group A Streptococcus

Complications of viral tonsillitis

Poor oral hygiene or dental infections

Weak immune system

Smoking or exposure to irritants

Complications in Quinsy Tonsillitis

Spread of infection to the jaw, neck or chest

Breathing difficulty due to airway narrowing

Formation of deep neck abscesses

Sepsis (a life-threatening blood infection)

Dehydration due to swallowing difficulty

Recurrence or chronic tonsillar abscesses

Risk Factors of Quinsy Tonsillitis

History of repeated tonsillitis or tonsil infections

Teenagers and young adults are more prone

Smokers or those exposed to second-hand smoke

Individuals with low immunity

Living in crowded or unhygienic conditions

Preventions of Quinsy Tonsillitis

Prompt treatment of acute tonsillitis

Good oral hygiene practices

Avoiding close contact with infected individuals

Completing prescribed antibiotic courses

Considering tonsillectomy in recurrent or chronic cases