Infectious Mononucleosis
What is Mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis (often called “Mono”) is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Signs of Mono may include: fever, sore throat, headache, white patches on the back of your throat, swollen glands in your neck, fatigue, poor appetite, rash, and stomach pains.
How is Mono spread?
Mono is not spread as easily as some other viruses such as the common cold. The Mono virus is found in saliva and mucus. It is usually passed from one person to another through kissing, sharing drinks and utensils, and, rarely, in other ways such as coughing. Signs of mono usually develop 4 to 7 weeks after you’ve been exposed to the virus. Generally people only get Mono once and it is most common among people 15 to 35 years old.
How is Mono diagnosed?
Your practitioner will probably first ask you some questions about your symptoms and then may do blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. One common test used to diagnose Mono is called the Monospot test. It is done by a finger stick and the results are available in 5-10 minutes. Sometimes other blood tests are needed if the results are unclear.
Does Mono have any complications?
The most serious concern with Mono is that the spleen will enlarge and may even rupture (tear open). The spleen is like a large gland. It’s located in the upper part of your abdomen on the left side and has functions that relate to your blood.
Although a ruptured spleen is rare in people with Mono it’s wise to be aware of the signs and call your practitioner right away or even go the Emergency Room if you notice any of them. These signs include: pain in the left upper portion of your abdomen (under the left chest), feeling lightheaded, feeling like your heart is beating fast and hard, bleeding more easily than usual, having difficulty breathing, and vomiting.
What about sports and exercise?
Avoid sports activities, heavy lifting and exercise of any kind until you are cleared by your practitioner. Moving around too much puts you at risk for rupturing your spleen. You may need to avoid physical activities for at least 3-4 weeks after the infection starts.
Is there a cure?
Mono will go away on its own. Symptoms usually last about 4-6 weeks.
How is Mono treated?
The main point of treatment is to relieve your symptoms. The following list includes tips on treatment:
- Rest
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Eat a balanced diet
- If you have a sore throat, gargle with warm salt water or suck on throat lozenges, hard candy or frozen desserts such as popsicles.
- You may want to take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil) to relieve pain or fever. Avoid Aspirin if you are under 18 since Aspirin has been associated with a disease called Reye’s Syndrome in children, which is a serious illness that can lead to death.
- As you start feeling better and start feeling stronger you may gradually start to increase your normal activities but take it easy!
Do I need an antibiotic?
Antibiotics like Penicillin are of no help in mono. Mono is caused by a virus and antibiotics don’t work against viruses. If you have a bacterial infection in addition to having mono your practitioner will give you an antibiotic.
Can you prevent Mono?
It is difficult to prevent a disease caused by a virus. However, there are some things you can do to help. Avoid sharing drinks and utensils. Develop a life style that promotes good health by eating a balanced diet, get adequate sleep and reduce stress.
Keep all follow up appointments. Tracking the progress of your healing is an important part of your recovery!
If you have any questions or concerns regarding Mono contact Health Services at 973-761-9175.