-inflammation of the tonsils-one or both-with tendency to suppuration, is called “quinsy.” It is attended with great pain and choking sensation, and when the throat is examined the swelling is seen almost to close the aperture of the throat is examined the swelling is seen almost to close the aperture of the throat and to be very red.
There is much fever, and the patient feels generally very ill.
Diagnosis.-Quinsy is recognised by swelling of one or other tonsil. If both are affected, one is generally more swelled then the other. IT is distinguished from diphtheria by the absence of the grey membrane which characterises the latter disease, and from acute herpetic sore throat (called “diphtheritic sore throat,” through it has no connection with real diphtheria) by the absence of the greyish spots. With all throat affections there is a good deal of prostration and constitutional disturbance. Quinsy is often rheumatic in its nature, and is not infrequently the precursor of a rheumatic attack.
General Treatment.-Put on a compress as soon as the first symptoms appear-two or three thicknesses of linen placed round the neck, and covered with a roll of flannel or worsted stocking. At a later stage warm poultices will be of service. Milk and barley water should constitute the diet. Milk in which figs have been boiled is better then plain milk, and the steam of it may be inhaled to advantage if the throat feels dry.
Medicines.-(Every hour until there is relief;then less often)
Aconite3.
-At the beginning;throat red, swallowing and speaking difficult;burning, pricking, contracting sensation;fever;anxiety, impatience, uneasiness.
Baryta c. 6.
-When the tonsils are unmistakably affected. It may be given at the beginning if there are no special symptoms calling for Aconite
Hepar.6.
-If Baryta is not sufficient and it is evident that matter is forming.
Apis.3.
-Patient always chilly, and afraid of open air, yet cannot bear closed room;hot, but not thirsty;much swelling of tonsils and mucous membrane, as if stung by a bee;stinging pains.
Sulph.6.
-Quinsy constantly recurring.
