Infectious mononucleosis is also known as the kissing disease. The virus that causes mononucleosis is transmitted through the saliva, a cough or a sneeze or by sharing a glass or food utensils with a person who has the condition. Mononucleosis is not contagious as the common cold. If you want to learn more about this condition, click here.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq_xDFffL9g” width=”220″]Symptoms of mononucleosis
- A general feeling of not being well or malaise and experiencing fatigue
- A sore throat that does not heal when using antibiotics
- Experiencing fever
- A swelling lymph node that can be found in the neck and armpits
- Tonsils are swelling and headache
- Experiencing skin rash
- Soft and swelling spleen
The incubation period of the virus is about four to six weeks, but in children the period is shorter. Symptoms of a sore throat and fever will be minimized within a week, but fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes and swelling spleen may last for more than a week.
Complications that can be caused by mononucleosis include the enlargement of the spleen. In a severe case, the spleen may rupture and will cause sharp, sudden pain that is felt in the left side of the upper abdomen and if this pain occurs, seek medical help immediately. Some problems with the liver such include the mild inflammation of the liver which is known as hepatitis and the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes or jaundice can sometimes happen.
Less common complications that can be caused by mononucleosis include anemia which is a decrease in red blood cells and in hemoglobin which is rich in iron protein found in the red blood cells. A low count of platelet which is blood cells that help in clotting also known as thrombocytopenia can also occur as well as swelling of the tonsils which can cause blockage of breathing.
Treatment and home remedies
- Rest is the first thing to do and avoid fighting the urge to sleep
- Stay in bed when feeling very ill and fatigued.
- Drink plenty of fluids in order to keep the body from getting dehydrated, especially water and fruit juices.
- Gargle with warm salt water if there is sore throat or suck some throat lozenges, hard candies or popsicles.
- Avoid spicy food if there is sore throat
- Maintain good nutrition in order to boost the immune system. Eat several small meals a day since it is easier on the digestive system and better tolerated while being sick.
- Avoid eating junk foods since it lowers the immune system of the body
- Use the herbs such as astragalus and Echinacea in the form of a tea, capsules or in tincture in order to boost the functions of the immune system.
- Take dandelion and milk thistle herbs in order to protect the liver in the form of tea, tincture and capsules.
- Take high-potency multivitamins.
- Take Vitamin C that contains bioflavonoids in order to strengthen the immune system.
- Use Vitamin E at 400-800 IU daily that is needed for the functioning of the immune system.
- Take Vitamin A daily for two weeks only and reduce to a recommended amount which is essential for functioning of the immune system
- Take ibuprofen or aspirin in order to relieve fever, ache and pain.