| | Conditions Treatments | Illness
Throat Abscess
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Causes
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Throat abscesses usually occur as a result of an infection, such as mononucleosis, tonsillitis, lymphocytic leukemia and strep throat---the most common cause. Smoking may also lead to an abscess in the throat.
Symptoms
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The first symptom of a throat abscess is usually a sore throat, which is followed by swollen lymph glands and---after a few days---a fever. If the abscess is not treated, swallowing will become difficult and painful. Throat abscesses typically occur in adolescents and adults.
Treatment
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The treating physician will drain the pus from the abscess after using a local anesthetic and prescribe an antibiotic drug. If the infection has reached the tonsils, surgery to remove the tonsils most likely will be required.
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