Mononucleosis (mono) treatment

What kind of disease is mononucleosis and why does it occur?

Mononucleosis is an infectious and viral disease, which is also known as kissing disease, due to the fact that it can be spread through saliva by kissing. This disease can be present for weeks, or even months, and even though young children usually develop only a few symptoms, adolescents and young adults will most likely develop all the signs and symptoms. The period of incubation may last from four to eight weeks, which is how long it takes the symptoms to appear. The most common ones are sore throat, fever, headache, loss of appetite, weakness and fatigue, but swollen tonsils are also frequently present. People who get mononucleosis are also at risk to experience problems related to the swollen spleen, which is particularly serious, since it may lead to bursting of this organ.

As for the cause of mononucleosis, the Epstein-Barr virus is identified as the culprit, but the fact is that adults are usually immune to this virus, which is why they rarely get mononucleosis. However, even those who got over this disease will always carry this virus, but they will be immune to it and won’t be able to develop it again. Still, the virus that they will carry for the rest of their lives might activate from time to time, even though the symptoms do not necessarily have to occur.

How is mononucleosis treated and can it be cured?

Regarding the treatment, it is important to know that antibiotics should not be used, because they are not effective in this case, no matter what symptoms might be present. The doctor can set the diagnosis after physical examination and blood tests, but most likely the therapy will consist of bed rest and taking in enough of the fluids. Ibuprofen might help in reducing the fever, or with headaches and sore throat, while in a bit more serious cases, in order to relieve swollen throat, tonsils or spleen, corticosteroids may be used.

The fact is that mononucleosis is usually not a serious condition, and the symptoms will go away with time until then the patient has to find some way to cope with the problems. Gargling with salt water or lozenges might help with sore throat, while it is highly recommended to avoid contact sports and any strenuous activities.