What is Infectious Mononucleosis?
Infectious mononucleosis, often called mono, is a viral infection that commonly affects teenagers and young adults. It is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which spreads through saliva and close personal contact.
Sharing drinks, eating utensils, or kissing someone who carries the virus can increase the risk of infection. Teens and young adults are more likely to develop symptoms after exposure.
Mono can cause extreme tiredness, sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While many people recover within a few weeks, fatigue may last longer for some individuals.
Symptoms
Mono symptoms can range from mild to more noticeable and may develop gradually over time.
Common symptoms include:
- Severe fatigue
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Headaches or body aches
- Swollen tonsils
- Enlarged spleen
- Loss of appetite
How is it diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will review your symptoms and perform a physical exam. They may check for swollen lymph nodes, enlarged tonsils, or tenderness in the abdomen related to the spleen.
Blood tests are often used to confirm mono. These tests can look for antibodies linked to Epstein-Barr virus and changes in white blood cells that suggest infection.
How is it treated?
There is no specific cure for mono, so treatment focuses on helping the body recover and easing symptoms.
Treatment may include:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Drinking extra fluids
- Taking over-the-counter medicines for fever or discomfort
- Avoiding strenuous activity or contact sports while healing
If the spleen becomes enlarged, avoiding sports and heavy activity is especially important to reduce the risk of injury. In more severe cases, providers may prescribe medication to reduce swelling in the throat or tonsils.
Most people begin feeling better within a few weeks, although tiredness can continue longer during recovery.
