Infectious Mononucleosis (mono), is an infection that comes from the Epstein-Barr virus. The infection is commonly known as the kissing disease because it is spread through saliva; however, one may also contract the infection by simply sharing a drink or even food. Mono is usually self-treatable and may resolve within days to weeks. Most individuals who have been infected with the virus will experience the following symptoms within the first day. Although mono is not treatable, a doctor may still prescribe medication to affected individuals to ease the symptoms. Mono is commonly found in individuals between the ages of 14-18. Children between the ages of 0-2 and adults over 60 are less likely to become infected. If you or someone you know may have mono, it is important to understand the different symptoms one may experience.
Below you may find the most common symptoms of Infectious Mononucleosis.
1. Fatigue
The majority of people that become infected with mono will experience fatigue. This leaves individuals feeling tired and mentally exhausted. The chronic fatigue associated with mono may last from weeks to even months. In some cases, it may never go away at all and these individuals may be diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). CFS from infectious mononucleosis occurs in both male and females of all ethnicities and all ages. A study of 150 patients has shown that 13 percent of individuals infected with mono still experienced CFS after 6 months.
If an individual is experiencing CFS after 6 months, he/she should seek medical attention to try and resolve the problem. There are cases where it is related to another underlying problem that has yet to be diagnosed. There are treatments that are available that may give the person some relief and be able to function at their best. For those that are experiencing fatigue, it is important to get a lot of rest. Getting plenty of rest is necessary in order to rebuild the immune system. It is essential that individuals also avoid stimulants such as caffeine, for they may interfere with the quality of sleep.
2. Fever
Fever is one of the most common symptoms that individuals experience when infected with mono. It is common that the temperatures will range from 101 degrees to 104 degrees. Most people will often experience the chills as well. It is important that individuals seek medical attention if their fever exceeds 103 degrees. Also watch out for other symptoms such as headaches or rashes. If one is experiencing a fever, there are a few steps that the individual may take to reduce the temperature. These steps include: resting, staying hydrated, lukewarm baths, eat bland foods, and over-the-counter medication may help as well.
3. Swollen Glands
Most individuals who are infected with infectious mononucleosis will experience swollen glands. Swollen glands are often a sign that the body is fighting an illness or infection. Most of the time, the glands will go back to normal on their own. If one notices that their glands do not seem to be getting better, they may want to try an over-the-counter medication or applying a warm compress to the area. Another way to treat them is to get enough rest. If the individual’s glands do not get better after taking medication and a warm compress, then he/she should consult a doctor.
4. Rash
Rashes are another common symptom that comes along with mono. A rash consists of a change in color, feeling, or texture of one’s skin. Developing a rash is not something that one should worry about right away. Individuals should however, contact a medical professional if he/she becomes short of breath or has swelling in the face. One should look out for purple rashes that look like bruises. It is important to note when the rash started and what part of the body was affected. One may treat their rash by using warm water, applying calamine lotion, and making sure that the area is getting enough air.
5. Chills
A lot of the time individuals will experience chills when they are infected with infectious mononucleosis. The chills are often accompanied by shivering and high body temperatures. They occur when your muscles are constantly expanding and contracting. There are ways that one can get rid of the chills at home. Simply cover oneself with a light sheet. Avoid using heavy blankets and clothes for it may increase the body temperature. Individuals may also take an over-the-counter medicine such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen. If the symptoms last longer than 48 hours, one should seek medical advice from a doctor.
6. Body Ache
Individuals with mono may experience body aches. These symptoms will generally start within the first day of being infected with the virus. The best way to treat body aches is to get plenty of rest. Resting will allow your muscles to relax. Like most of the other symptoms, one may also take an over-the-counter medicine if they are feeling like the problem is not getting any better. If one feels like they have pain in their abdomen, he/she should call the doctor right away. Pain in the abdomen could be one of the signs of a ruptured spleen, which is common in people infected with the virus.
7. Swollen Tonsils
Swollen tonsils often occur a few days later after being infected with the virus. Generally, one will experience a sore throat which may then lead to the swollen tonsils. As the sore throat worsens, one may notice that they are developing a whitish-yellow covering on their tonsils. If the individual notices that he/she has swollen tonsils, they may want to try a vaporizer or dehumidifier. However, if the swelling does not resolve itself within a day, they should seek medical attention right away. The swelling of the tonsils could be the start of another problem if they do not get treated.
8. Headache
Headaches are one of the symptoms that generally occurs in the first day after contracting infectious mononucleosis. The individual may treat their headache with an over-the-counter medication. Allow oneself to get plenty of rest in a dimly lit room. Avoiding sunlight and loud noises could allow the issue to resolve itself on its own. It is important for the individual to drink plenty of fluids to assure that they are not becoming dehydrated. If the headache becomes persistent and neck becomes stiff, he/she should contact a medical doctor right away for these signs could point to meningitis.
9. Swollen Lymph Nodes
Similar to swollen glands, individuals may develop swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small structures in the body that are shaped like beans. These lymph nodes carry nutrients, fluids, and waste material throughout the bloodstream and body tissues. Lymph nodes generally come in groups usually located in the neck, groin, and underarms. Most lymph nodes in the body cannot be felt, but when they become swollen, one may experience pain and tenderness in the area. In order to treat the swollen lymph nodes, one may apply a warm compress to the area or take an over-the-counter medicine.
