Infected with mononucleosis? Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms and how to manage them.
Symptoms
- Fever: Individuals typically experience a persistent high fever, with temperatures reaching up to 39-40°C. This fever tends to be more pronounced in the evenings or at night and can last for several days to weeks. Chills and sweating are common during these periods, and severe fever can even affect sleep quality. National Center for Biotechnology Information
- Sore Throat: This is one of the characteristic symptoms, manifesting as severe pain in the throat, particularly when swallowing. On examination, tonsils can be observed as enlarged and covered with white or gray pseudomembranes. This may also be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes, especially noticeable in the neck, causing stiffness and discomfort. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Lymph Node Swelling: Lymph nodes throughout the body can swell to varying degrees, most commonly in the neck, but also potentially involving the armpit and groin areas. Swollen lymph nodes can range from soft to moderately hard, without tenderness or with mild tenderness, and can be several centimeters in diameter, with some individuals noticing significant lumps. World Health Organization
- Rash: Some patients develop a rash during the course of the illness, typically appearing on the 5th to 7th day. The rash can be varied, including maculopapular, urticarial, or erythematous, and is often seen on the trunk and the proximal parts of the limbs. National Institutes of Health
- Liver and Spleen Enlargement: Approximately half of the patients may experience mild to moderate enlargement of the liver and spleen. An enlarged liver can cause discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen, while an enlarged spleen can lead to dull pain in the upper left abdomen and may also result in jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), indicating liver function impairment. Mayo Clinic
Individuals often feel extremely tired, unable to regain energy even after ample rest. This fatigue can last for weeks or even months, severely impacting daily life and work efficiency. People may find it difficult to concentrate and struggle with everyday tasks.
Precautions
Rest is crucial for recovery. During the acute phase, it’s advised to reduce physical activity and avoid overexertion until symptoms significantly improve. For symptoms like fever and sore throat, antipyretic analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used. For severe sore throat, local anesthetic mouthwash can provide relief.
Encouraging hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintaining a balanced diet is recommended, even if appetite may be poor. If swallowing difficulties arise, soft foods or liquid diets may be an option. While most cases have a good prognosis, it’s important to closely monitor for signs of complications, such as the risk of spleen rupture. Doctors may advise limiting vigorous exercise for several weeks to prevent accidental spleen injury. UpToDate
| Symptoms | Management |
|---|---|
| Fever | Use antipyretics and rest |
| Sore Throat | Analgesics and local anesthetics |
| Lymph Node Swelling | Observation and monitoring |
| Rash | Proper hygiene and avoid scratching |
| Liver and Spleen Enlargement | Avoid heavy physical activity and monitor for pain |
Understanding the Impact of Fatigue
Fatigue is a common and significant symptom of mononucleosis, affecting individuals’ daily functioning. It’s important to understand that while rest is vital, maintaining a balance with gentle activity can be beneficial for recovery. Healthline
Nutrition and Hydration
A well-balanced diet and staying hydrated are key to supporting the body’s recovery process. Even with a reduced appetite, consuming nutritious foods can provide the necessary energy and nutrients to combat the illness. WebMD
Physical Activity and Recovery
While it’s crucial to avoid overexertion, light physical activity can help maintain muscle tone and prevent the negative effects of prolonged inactivity. Gradually increase activity levels as the body recovers. Cleveland Clinic
Monitoring for Complications
Complications such as spleen rupture are rare but serious. It’s important to be aware of any sudden, severe abdominal pain and seek medical attention promptly. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor the condition and prevent complications. Medscape