INFECTIOUS MONONUCLEOSIS

Infectious mononucleosis, also called "mono," is an infection caused by a virus called the Epstein-Barr virus. It is spread mainly through the saliva, which is why it has the nickname the "kissing disease." It is most common in older teens and young adults and takes 4 to 6 weeks to develop once a person comes in contact with the virus.

After the virus enters the body, it can take up to a month or longer before symptoms begin. Symptoms include: fever, tiredness, headache, and muscle aches. Many people have extreme tiredness and need to sleep 12 to 16 hours a day. The tiredness may be present before any other symptoms. After just a few days of the fever and muscle aches, the throat becomes sore and lymph nodes in the neck become swollen.

Other symptoms may include:

loss of appetite
nausea
joint aches
rash on the chest and
vague abdominal fullness or pain

The symptoms may get worse for 2 or 3 weeks after they first appear. Usually the fever, sore throat, and extreme fatigue last about 1 to 2 weeks. A small percentage of people with mono get a generalized red rash all over their body. They may also develop tiny red spots or bruise-like areas in the mouth. It can take several weeks, and in some cases several months, for the body's immune system to overcome the virus.

Diagnosis is made by a physical exam and blood test for mono. The first blood test might be negative but a complete blood count may show that a mono infection appears to be developing. The person may need to return in a few days for another blood test. If it is mono, the second test will nearly always be positive.

There is not a specific treatment for mono. Because it is a viral illness, antibiotics are not helpful. Most people with infectious mononucleosis require only supportive care such as:

plenty of rest
using acetaminophen for fever, sore throat, and muscle aches
gargling with warm salt water to reduce swelling and discomfort of the throat
increasing fluids and
slow return to normal activities

If after 1 to 2 weeks the symptoms seem to be worsening rather than gradually improving, contact the healthcare provider. Complications may include strep throat, sinus infection, or an abscess on the tonsil. These three infections do need to be treated with antibiotics.

Mono can also cause an enlarged spleen that could rupture if it were hit or strained. For this reason, heavy lifting and any kind of jarring activity or contact sport should be avoided. All activities will need to be restricted until the spleen returns to normal size.

To prevent mono:

avoid contact with people who have sore throats
do not share eating or drinking utensils and
avoid intimate contact with others if you or they have been diagnosed with mono

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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