Infectious mononucleosis (mono) also known as “kissing disease” . Mononucleosis is a viral infectious disease cause by Epstein-Barr Virus commonly transmitted through saliva. Sometimes the viral may be transmitted through cough or sneeze. Sharing a glass with people infected with Epstein-Barr Virus is the risk factor for development of mononucleosis. Mononucleosis commonly occur in those age 15 to 17. Most common virus to cause mononucleosis is Epstein Barr Virus although there are reported case of mononucleosis associated with other virus such as cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Most common symptoms of mononucleosis are: soreness of throat, sudden weight loss, fatigue, pharyngeal, petechiae, inflammation, fever, malaise, loss of appetite.
Complete List of mononucleosis symptoms:
- Drowsiness
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle aches or stiffness
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck and armpit
- Swollen spleen
- General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
Mononucleosis symptoms sore throat
One approach to reduce mono symptoms sore throat that comes with mononucleosis is to gargle with warm, not hot, salt water. Ideally, the rinse used should be slightly warmer than body temperature.The reason of using salt water gargle is to gently cleanse the tonsils and rehydrate the raw, damaged membranes in the throat and mouth.The tonsils may be covered with white film or spots that show the body’s own defense systems are trying to keep the infection under control. A doctor my prescribe anti-inflammatory steroids to reduce the swelling of the throat.
Mononucleosis Prognosis
The fever associated with mononucleosis usually drops in 10 days period.The other symptoms of mono such as swollen lymph glands and spleen heal in 4 weeks. Others,fatigue usually will disappeared within a few weeks, but may stay for two to three months period.
How to Prevent Mononucleosis
To prevent mononucleosis infections,you should avoid kissing or sharing utensils with someone has mononucleosis infection.Although mononucleosis contagious period is varied but most cases of mononucleosis may be contagious while they have symptoms and may up to a few months afterwards.
