Though quinsy is now rare because most of the people get effective treatment for tonsillitis early enough to prevent it. But even then this disease is found in the remote areas and it can require a stay in the hospital. Quinsy is known as a peritonsillar abscess. The abscess is always on one side only and the swelling appears above the tonsil near the soft palate. The small floppy tissue hanging down in the middle of the soft palate (The uvula) is pushed across to the side without the abscess. Further general symptoms includes very painful sore throat; fever; headache; generally feeling unwell; speech may be impaired; there may be salivation and dribbling; swelling of the throat; neck lymph nodes are enlarged and tender.