Mononucleosis is commonly called ” “kissing disease” and spreads the most by close contact and saliva. The disease is a viral infection and is usually treated symptomatically to relive the symptoms. Most medicines don’t have much of an effect as the disease usually runs its course and usually cures on its own.
Treatment of Mononucleosis:
Mononucleosis is caused by a virus called Epstein Barr Virus and may also be caused by the Cytomegalovirus. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics have little or no effect at all and medicines such as steroids are also not beneficial. The best way to treat mononucleosis is by getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids.
Symptomatic Treatment For Mononucleosis:
- Keep the body hydrated by drinking lots of fluid
- Saline water gargles in with warm water to relive the symptoms of a sore throat
- Resting as much as possible to combat fatigue and general malaise
- Take over-the-counter pain killers in order to relive pain
- Avoid rigorous activities such as sports or outdoor activities
Prognosis Of Mononucleosis:
The disease is self limiting and usually the symptoms disappear in 7-10 days. The swollen lymph nodes and spleen usually take a little longer to heal, and may take up to four weeks to come back to their normal size. Fever also disappears in 7-10 days but the general malaise and feelings of fatigue may linger for two to three months.
Complications Of Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis rarely has complications but in a weak or immuno-compromised individual the following complications may occur:
- Hemolytic anemia
- Hepatitis
- Jaundice
- Meningitis
- Seizures
- Secondary throat infections usually bacterial
- Rupture of the spleen
- Death, but very rarely
The emergency room should be visited if at any time the following symptoms occur:
- abdominal pain
- difficulty in breathing
- high fever which remains persistent
- arm or leg weakness
- head ache which is very severe
- yellow discoloration of the skin or the eyes
- stiff neck
Prevention of Mononucleosis:
People who have mononucleosis can transmit it to others, therefore if you know if someone has mono, you should avoid sharing utensils, kissing or coming in close contact with that person.
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