Quincy is called a peritonsillar abscess. It is a painful condition characterised by pus-filled inflammation near the tonsils. This condition often results from untreated tonsillitis. It causes symptoms such as intense throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing. It requires urgent medical attention and sometimes requires surgical drainage.
Two Types of Quincy
Unilateral Quincy:
In this type, one side of the throat gets affected; it is a common type of throat infection. It causes asymmetrical swelling.
Bilateral Quincy:
Bilateral quincy affects both sides of the throat. The abscess is present on both sides, which increases the risk of airway obstruction. This is a rare but dangerous type of quincy.
Causes and Risk Factors of Quincy
- Recurrent or Chronic throat infections
- Recurrent or untreated recurrent tonsillitis
- Bacterial infections from Streptococcus
- Weakened immune system
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Chronic throat infections
Symptoms of Quincy
- Severe pain in the throat
- Difficulty in swallowing or opening the mouth
- Swollen, red tonsils with a pus pocket
- Sometimes associated with fever and Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty in breathing
Complications of Quincy
- It can cause airway obstruction
- Deep neck infections
- It can cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires intensive care in the ICU.
Diagnosis of Quincy
- It is based on detailed medical history and Physical examination.
- Blood test: Complete blood count
- Imaging test: Sonography or CT scan if the diagnosis is not precise.
Treatment of Quincy
- Oral Medications
- Intravenous medications
- IV fluids
- Surgical treatments, such as needle aspiration or incision and drainage, as well as Tonsillectomy, may be advised for recurrent cases. In this surgery, the tonsils are removed.
Diet and Lifestyle for The Recovery of Quincy
- Eat a soft diet like vegetable soups, khichdi, etc
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
- Avoid oily, spicy food
- Get adequate rest to support the healing
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
- Maintain good oral hygine
Consult a doctor immediately if you experience severe throat pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing. Throat infections can progress quickly and may lead to serious complications and stridulous obstruction. Recurrent throat infections should not be neglected, as they can lead to severe complications.