The symptoms of quinsy, also called peritonsillar abscess, are similar to those of tonsillitis. They include:
- a worsening sore throat, usually on one side
- a high temperature of 38C (100.4F) or above
- difficulty opening your mouth
- pain when swallowing
- difficulty swallowing
- changes to your voice or difficulty speaking
- bad breath
- drooling saliva due to the difficulty swallowing
- earache on the affected side
- headache and feeling generally unwell
- swelling around your face and neck
- tiredness
- dehydration, when the normal water content of your body is reduced
Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's response to infection, irritation or injury, which causes redness, swelling, pain and sometimes a feeling of heat in the affected area.
Tonsils
Two small glands found at the back of your throat, behind the tongue.
Last reviewed: 29/03/2011
Next review due: 29/03/2013
