Peritonsillar Abscess in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

A peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus that forms in tissues around one or both of the tonsils. It can occur as a result of strep throat or another infection. An abscess can cause severe pain and make it very hard to swallow.

Your child will need antibiotics. In some cases, the abscess will have been drained through a needle or small incision.

Your child may have had a sedative to help them relax. Your child may be unsteady after having sedation. It takes time (sometimes a few hours) for the medicine's effects to wear off. Common side effects of sedation include nausea, vomiting, and feeling sleepy or cranky.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Do not give aspirin to children and teens. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
  • Store your child’s prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Make sure your child gets lots of rest.
• Follow your doctor's instructions if the abscess was drained through a needle or small incision.
• While your child's throat is very sore, use liquid nourishment such as soup or high-protein drinks.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child has trouble breathing. Symptoms may include:
  • Using the belly muscles to breathe.
  • The chest sinking in or the nostrils flaring when your child struggles to breathe.
• Your child is very sleepy and you have trouble waking them.
• Your child passes out (loses consciousness).

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has new or worse symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain or swelling in the throat.
  • A new or higher fever.
• Your child seems to be getting much sicker.
• Your child has new or worse nausea or vomiting.
• Your child has new or worse trouble swallowing.
• Your child has a hard time drinking fluids.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.