Here’s what you should know about Mononucleosis. For more details, feel free to call us or schedule a telemedicine appointment. We proudly serve patients in Coral Springs, Parkland, Tamarac, Margate, North Lauderdale, and Coconut Creek, FL.
Mononucleosis, often called the “kissing disease,” is a viral infection typically spread through saliva or other bodily fluids, depending on the virus. While long-term complications are rare, it’s important to seek medical care for proper testing and symptom management. If diagnosed with mono, you’ll also receive guidance on how to prevent spreading it to others.
Overview of Mono
Mono is a viral infection that requires your cells to host the virus to replicate. The Epstein-Barr virus is the most common cause of mono, but other viruses can also lead to the infection, including:
- HIV
- Rubella
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Hepatitis A, B, or C
- Adenovirus
- Toxoplasmosis
Saliva is the most common method of transmission, but blood and semen may also contain the virus.
Symptoms of Mono
While adults often develop immunity to the Epstein-Barr virus, they might not experience symptoms. Mono generally affects adolescents and young adults, with younger children typically having mild symptoms.
If infected, you may experience the following:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes (especially in the armpit and neck)
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Swollen tonsils
- Skin rash
Your spleen may also become enlarged, but this typically doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms.
Symptoms typically last four to six weeks, although younger children may recover more quickly.
Diagnostic Process for Mono
At an urgent care center, your doctor will begin by asking about your symptoms and when they started. A physical examination will follow, focusing on checking for swollen lymph nodes and tonsils.
In some cases, this examination alone may be enough to diagnose mono. However, further tests, such as an antibody test or white blood cell count, may be conducted. The antibody test checks for the Epstein-Barr virus, while a complete blood count (CBC) can show whether there is a higher-than-normal number of white blood cells, indicating an infection.
Treatment for Mono
Currently, there is no prescription treatment for mono. If you have another infection alongside mono, your doctor may prescribe medication for that.
Since there is no cure for mono, your doctor will provide advice on managing symptoms. Rest is key, and you may be advised to avoid strenuous activities to prevent complications like a ruptured spleen.
Complications from Mono
In rare cases, mono can lead to more serious complications, such as:
- Enlarged spleen, which may rupture in severe cases (a medical emergency requiring surgery)
- Jaundice or hepatitis if the liver is affected
- Anemia
- Heart problems
- Nervous system issues
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
For those with HIV/AIDS or other immune system weaknesses, the Epstein-Barr virus can cause more severe complications.
While mono isn’t highly contagious, it can lead to significant complications for some individuals. If you are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to seek care from a facility equipped to diagnose and treat your condition.
Contact Walking Urgent Care, Inc., serving Coral Springs, FL, and surrounding areas, if you suspect you have mono or need more information.