No one likes being sick. But if you or someone you love has mononucleosis (mono), a contagious viral infection that mainly affects teens and young adults, it can be especially frustrating since its symptoms can be long-lasting and hard to shake. Left untreated, it can also become serious.
With a good understanding of the virus, though, you can take steps to prevent it — and with proper care, you can recover quickly and feel whole again.
Causes and Transmission
Mono is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common and highly contagious infection that spreads through bodily fluids like saliva. Nicknamed “the kissing disease," you're far more likely to catch mono from close contact with a person who has it, especially through kissing or sharing utensils or drinks.
You can lower your risk by:
- Avoiding kissing people who feel sick
- Avoiding sharing personal items, like water bottles, toothbrushes and lip balm
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise and plenty of rest
- Washing your hands regularly
If you’re a parent of a teen, we also recommend having a proactive conversation about the virus, how it’s spread and how they can protect themselves.
Symptoms and Treatment
It’s important to recognize mono symptoms so you or your loved one can be diagnosed early and get the right care.
Common symptoms include:
Fatigue. Mono fatigue shows up as a lack of energy that can last for several weeks or even months. Listen to your body. Take time to rest so you can recover fully and prevent complications. You can continue light activities but avoid strenuous exercise.
Sore Throat. You may experience a severe, persistent sore throat with swollen tonsils. Sometimes, white patches with pus will appear on your tonsils. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea and clear soups, to stay hydrated. Gargling with warm salt water can also temporarily relieve sore throat pain.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes. The lymph nodes in your neck, armpits and groin may become tender and enlarged. Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help.
However, mono symptoms can vary depending on a number of factors, including the cause of the infection. In some cases, you may also have:
- Body aches
- Fever
- Headache
- Skin rash
Other Impacts on Your Body
It’s common for EBV to increase your liver enzyme levels, which can lead to liver inflammation, a condition known as hepatitis. This inflammation is usually mild and won’t cause any long-lasting damage. However, you may notice pain in your stomach area, loss of appetite and yellowing in your skin and eyes, which is called jaundice.
Mono can also cause your spleen to become enlarged. That means that even though you probably won’t notice any obvious symptoms, it’s best to avoid sports and physical activities. A blow to your body may rupture your spleen, which is a life-threatening complication that causes pain and internal bleeding. Go to the emergency room right away if you feel sharp, sudden pain in your upper left abdomen.
Remember, the mono virus — and its bothersome symptoms — also tends to linger. Be patient with yourself and know that you will eventually heal.
A Word About How Mono Affects Adults
Most adults have already been exposed to EBV. This means they have antibodies that keep them from getting EBV and mono. But if you do get mono as an adult, time is the best medicine. Your immune system will typically clear the virus on its own after a few weeks. You’ll also develop immunity to the associated virus, meaning you won’t get the same kind of mono again.
Find Expert Care Close to Home
If you suspect you or your child has mononucleosis, we’re here to help. Thanks to our conveniently located urgent care centers and emergency rooms, you can find expert care close to home. Our experienced health care professionals are here to give you whole-person care when you need it most.
Know where to go if you need urgent care or emergency services for infectious diseases.
