Mononucleosis

What is mononucleosis?

It is also known as mono or the kissing disease.

It is a viral infection that can leave you feeling tired or weak for weeks or even months.

It will go away on it own, but you should get lots of rest and practice good self-care to help you feel better.

What causes Mononucleosis?

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes mono. It is seen more in young adults or

adolescents; however, children can get the virus, but it often goes unnoticed because their symptoms are mild.

Adults usually don’t get the virus because they have immunity to it.

What are the symptoms or mononucleosis?

High fever A sever sore throat Swollen glands and tonsils Weakness and fatigue Symptoms can start 4 to 6 weeks after you

have been exposed to the virus. Mononucleosis can cause the spleen to

swell. If you have pain in the upper left part of you belly, then your spleen could have burst and you need to seek medical help.

How is mononucleosis diagnosed.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and they will examine you.

Blood tests may be conducted to check for the presence of mono and the Epstein-Barr virus. The blood test may also rule out other causes for your symptoms.

How is mononucleosis treated?

Usually only self care is needed for the treatment of mononucleosis.

What self-care entails:› Get plenty of rest.› Gargle with salt water or use throat lozenges.

This will soothe your sore throat.› Take acetaminophen (Tylenol)or ibuprofen

(Advil). This will reduce a fever and will relieve a sore throat and headaches.

› Avoid contact sports or lifting. Your spleen may be enlarged and these things could cause it to burst, which is a whole other matter.

How can mononucleosis be spread?

It can be spread by contact with an infected person’s saliva, mucus from the nose and throat, and sometimes even tears.

Since it can be spread by contact with saliva, it can be spread by kissing, hence the nickname the “kissing disease”.

How to avoid spreading mononucleosis.

Don’t kiss anyone. Don’t share drinks. Don’t share utensils. Don’t share toothbrushes. Basically don’t share anything that has

come in contact with your saliva, your mucus, or your tears.

What happens when you get over mononucleosis?

Your symptoms will go away for good; however, you will always carry the virus that caused it.

The virus can become active from time to time but will not cause any symptoms.

When the virus is active, it can spread to other people.

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