Mononucleosis is a disease that mainly affects teenagers and young adults, although it can also affect young people. The disease is caused by viruses, especially the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and certain infections. Mono is popularly known as “the kissing disease” because it spreads quickly through bodily fluids such as saliva.
Mono is not a dangerous disease for most people and usually improves without therapy. Yet acute fatigue, body aches and other symptoms can disrupt school, work and daily life. You may feel unwell for a month if you have mono.
Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is very widespread. Not everyone infected with the virus shows symptoms; other people just carry the virus with them. According to Cleveland Clinic, the following are symptoms and treatments for the infection.
Symptoms
Fatigue
Sore throat, perhaps mistaken for strep throat that does not improve after antibiotic treatment
A fever
Lymph nodes in your neck and armpits that are swollen
Almonds swollen
Headache
Skin rashes
Swollen, tender spleen
The virus has an incubation period of four to six weeks. This time may be shorter in young children. The incubation period is the time it takes for symptoms to manifest after exposure to the virus. Symptoms such as fever and sore throat normally disappear after a few weeks. However, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes and a bloated spleen can last for several weeks longer.
Therapy
Mono has no vaccine or treatment. Antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections and antiviral drugs used to treat other viruses are not effective against mono. Instead, therapies focus on making you feel better by relieving symptoms. Your concern may include:
Rest: Mono quickly wears you out. Sleep helps your body’s ability to fight disease.
Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are pain relievers that reduce fever, inflammation, headache, and muscle aches.
Sore throat relievers include gargling with salt water and using throat lozenges.
Physical exertion can put unnecessary stress on an enlarged spleen, increasing the risk of rupture. Contact sports and high-intensity activities should be avoided if you are not feeling well and for up to four weeks afterwards.
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