MononucleosisMononucleosis is often referred to as the kissing disease. It is highly contagious through someone that has it right near you who: Coughs or sneezes Sharing food with the infected person or glass, or utensils. It is also triggered in a person who has Epstein-Barr virus. Epstein Barr Virus is from the herpes family. Epstein-Barr was the virus named after a scientist that first found the sickness back in the 1960's. This virus lives in the lymph nodes and launches an attack at the lymphocytes which are white blood cells. When these white cells enter in with the virus, the cells will change their shape, and will become several in numbers. It can take several weeks before the process causes the infection called mono. Signs and symptoms suggestive of mononucleosis are the following: Tiredness Weak feelings Strep throat that will not go away Fevers Lymph nodes that swell Tonsillitis Bad headaches Rashes on the skin No appetite Spleen is enlarged/swollen Sweating at nighttime There is a period of incubation with this virus of at least four and maybe even eight weeks. The younger the person as in a young child, they might overcome it quicker then this time period. When there is the fever and sore throat, this will usually calm down after 14 days or so in the infectious period. But the swelling of the lymph nodes along with an enlarged spleen may continue on for many weeks.
Sometimes mononucleosis can cause liver problems. There is a risk of Jaundice which means the skin is turning yellow along with the whites of your eyes. Hepatitis This is the type of hepatitis that causes the liver to be inflamed.
Low Risk Complications of mononucleosis: Anemia The red blood cells are likely to decrease along with hemoglobin. Low platelet count These cells have to do with your blood clotting right. Heart inflammation can occur. Nervous system People that have a weak immune system such as HIV for example, are likely to have the Epstein-Barr Virus which leads into mono. Diagnosis of Mono If you have a recurring strep infection, this is one of the first viruses that are suspected. The doctor will check for lymph nodes that are swelling, along with an enlarged spleen just by feeling, and also tonsils that don't look normal. For confirmation of the problem, a blood test that tests for antibodies. This is known as a monospot test. The test is able to show results in 24 hours, but may not pick up on the infection during the very early phase, like the first week of it. There is another test for antibodies that can be done which takes longer for results, but picks up on the very first signs right at the beginning of it. Treating the Virus Strep infection is common with this virus. If you are having strep in with the virus, antibiotics will be given. Steroids may likely be given to ease the painful throat swelling and tonsillitis that may accompany the illness. Bed rest is highly recommended along with plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Tylenol relieves the fevers that you are having and salt water that is warm also helps when you gargle it. The salt water helps relieve the sore throat pain. Coming back to wellness may be slow and 2-3 months long. It is important to do a bit of light exercise to help you feel stronger after this illness which can leave you feeling drained and weak.
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