Retropharyngeal Abscess

Retropharyngeal Abscess

A retropharyngeal abscess is a swollen area in the back of the throat that contains a collection of pus.
CAUSES

This condition is caused by bacteria.
SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of this condition include:

Swelling, pain, and tenderness on one or both sides of the back of the throat.

A high fever.

A stiff neck.

Trouble breathing.

Trouble swallowing.

Pain when swallowing.

A muffled voice.

DIAGNOSIS

This condition is diagnosed with a physical exam. Sometimes an X-ray exam is also done.
TREATMENT

This condition is usually treated with:

Antibiotic medicines.

Drainage. This is a procedure in which an incision is made over the abscess so that the abscess can drain.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Take your antibiotic medicine as told by your health care provider. Do not stop taking the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:

You cannot swallow.

You are starting to drool because of pain when you swallow.

You are not able to lie flat without feeling short of breath.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:

Your symptoms get worse.

You develop signs of infection, such as:

Muscle aches.

Chills.

A general ill feeling.

You develop a stiff neck.

You have a severe headache that is not relieved with medicines.

You have a fever.

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