Mononucleosis is commonly known as ” “kissing”s disease” . This is a highly contagious viral infection which causes sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes and general malaise. This disease can easily be treated by home remedies and its spread can be avoided by taking a few precautions.
What Are The Causes of Mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis is caused by a virus known as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) but it can also be caused by the Cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is spread by close contact and saliva, and is most prevalent in teenagers aged 15 to 17 years. Children are also very susceptible to catching mononucleosis. It is called ” “kissing”s disease” as it spreads the most by kissing.
What Are The Symptoms Of Mononucleosis?
The symptoms of mononucleosis vary from individual to individual but most commonly it causes fever, general malaise, sore throat, head ache and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. The disease begins slowly, and gets worse with time. The tonsils also develop a whitish yellow covering and are painful. If an anti biotic such as amoxicillin or ampicillin is taken, a measles like rash can develop, which is why these antibiotics should be avoided unless a positive streptococcus test comes up.
The Symptoms Of Mononucleosis Are:
- Sleepiness or drowsiness
- Fever which can be mild or high
- Muscle pains and body aches
- Body rash
- Feeling of malaise, or feeling ill
- Appetite loss
- headache
- Sore throat
- Swollen spleen
- Enlarged lymph nodes , especially those in the arm pit and neck
Symptoms that are not very frequent include:
- Cough
- Hives
- Constant fatigue
- Jaundice
- Shortness of breath
- Nose bleeds
- Photosensitivity (sensitivity to light)
- Rapid heart rate
Signs and Tests For Mononucleosis:
The most common physical examination of mononucleosis is the presence of swollen lymph nodes in the neck and arm pit and a whitish yellow covering on the tonsils. An associated skin rash, and swollen spleen may also be present along with the fever and sore throat. Blood tests will reveal a high WBC count and the presence of atypical lymphocytes confirm the disease along with abnormal liver function tests. A test called the monospot test is done to confirm an infection with mononucleosis.
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