Mononucleosis
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glandular fever - kissing disease
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INFECTIOUS
DISEASE |
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Viral Illnesses
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Infectious mononucleosis (mono), or glandular
fever, is often called the kissing disease. Kissing can spread the
virus that causes this disease, but more commonly
coughing, sneezing, or sharing a glass or cup
transmits mononucleosis. It's not highly contagious.
Mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr
virus. Mono usually isn't very serious, although the
virus remains in your body for life. Some people
with mono have minimal symptoms, and the infection
goes unrecognized.
Most people have been exposed to the Epstein-Barr
virus by the time they're 35 years old and have
built up antibodies. They're immune and won't get it
again. Full-blown mono is common in people ages 7 to
35, and the highest incidence is in people between
the ages of 15 and 24. In non-Western countries,
mononucleosis has become increasingly common in
children younger than 3 years.
Self-care
In addition to getting plenty of bed
rest, these steps can help relieve symptoms:
- Drink plenty of water and fruit
juices. Fluids help relieve fever and sore throat and prevent
dehydration.
- Take an over-the-counter pain
reliever. Use pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) as needed. But don't give
aspirin to a child under age 16. Aspirin may trigger a rare but
potentially fatal disorder known as Reye's syndrome.
- Gargle with salt water. Do this
several times a day to relieve sore throat. Mix one-half teaspoon
salt in a glass of warm water.
Most signs and symptoms of mono ease
within a few weeks but it may be two to three months before you feel
completely normal.
Returning to your usual schedule too
soon can increase the risk of a relapse. If you're an athlete, be
cautious about returning to strenuous activities, such as contact
sports, especially if your spleen is enlarged because of the increased
risk of rupturing the spleen. Children with mononucleosis and an
enlarged spleen shouldn't engage in vigorous activities, roughhousing or
contact sports for the same reason. Rupture of the spleen results in
severe bleeding and is a medical emergency. Doctors recommend avoiding
contact sports for at least one to two months after you've had mono.
Although you may not be able to return
to vigorous activities right away, your doctor may recommend gradual
exercise to help you rebuild your strength as you recover from
mononucleosis.
Mononucleosis
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