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eNEWSLETTERS

Mono and Your Health

We are sure you have heard of “mono” which is short for Mononucleosis, also known as the “the kissing disease”. Mono is a viral infection usually caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). According to WebMD.com EBV is most often seen in adolescents and young adults. Children are at risk of catching the virus, but their symptoms are mild. Older adults usually don’t get mono because they have immunity to the virus.

Did you know?
People who have been infected with EBV will carry the virus for the rest of their lives, even if they have no signs or symptoms of mono (kidshealth.org).

Mono: The Cause

The spread of saliva (kissing, spit)
Mucus from the nose to throat
Sometimes tears
Sharing things such as; toothbrushes, eating utensils, drinking glasses, etc.

Mono: The Symptoms

High fever
Severe sore throat
Swollen glands and tonsils
Weakness
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Skin rash
Abdominal pain
Your spleen may swell

If you experience significant pain in the top left part of your belly, this may mean your spleen has become inflamed.

Note: Symptoms usually start to develop 4 to 6 weeks after being infected with the virus.

Mono: The Diagnosis
Mono can be a tricky virus because some individuals may show no sign of mono, where others only experience mild to extreme symptoms. Don’t be too quick to diagnose yourself, always consult a physician first. The physician may want to run some blood work to see if mono is the cause of your discomfort.

Mono: Treatment Options

Get plenty of rest. In some cases, you may need bed rest.
Gargle salt water or use cough drops to ease your sore throat.
You can take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce fever, relieve sore throats and/or headaches.
Avoid contact sports and heavy lifting. You don’t want your spleen to rupture!

When is it safe to play sports again?

Mono: Keeping Others Mono Free
Chances are family and friends will not catch the disease just from casual contact with you. But there are ways you can help them stay germ free;

Wash your hands.
Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze and/or cough.
Keep your drinks and eating utensils to yourself.

Sources:
http://kidshealth.org/teen/infections/common/mononucleosis.html
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/infectious-mononucleosis-topic-overview
http://kids.emedtv.com/mono/mono-treatment.html

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