Health Services
Self Care

Mononucleosis

Description
Mononucleosis is a common viral illness prevalent among young adults. It is transmitted via mucus or saliva, either through direct contact (hence the nickname the "Kissing Disease"), or via airborne droplets of saliva or mucus.

Symptoms
The usual symptoms of mononucleosis are fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the back of neck, fatigue and general discomfort. In many cases, a faint body rash occurs. Most cases of mononucleosis are detectable by blood test. Severe cases do occur, but the typical case of mononucleosis lasts only 10 to 14 days. Lingering fatigue may last a few weeks or several months after other symptoms subside.

Treatment
No medication can cure mononucleosis; antibiotics have no effect on uncomplicated cases. Non-prescription drugs such as aspirin substitutes and throat lozenges are often suggested to relieve the symptoms of sore throat and fever. Rest and extra sleep are advisable, particularly when a fever is present. Increased liquids and a well-balanced diet are also encouraged. Strenuous physical activity, particularly contact sports, should be avoided, as should alcoholic beverages, which put stress on the liver. Following these self-care suggestions, most patients recover fully from mononucleosis within two to three weeks.

Complications
Inflammation of the liver occurs in most cases of mononucleosis, but is generally mild and brief, rarely causing permanent damage. Alcohol should be avoided to prevent the chance of increased and more severe inflammation.

In some cases, the spleen, a blood filtering organ in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, may become swollen and weakened. Rarely, the spleen may rupture, either spontaneously or as the result of sudden pressure on the abdomen. Rupture of the spleen is indicated by severe abdominal pain and requires prompt professional medical intervention. This complication is very rare but quite serious and may be life-threatening.

Contagious?
Mononucleosis is probably no more contagious than any other viral disease such as colds or flu. However, the contagious state of the disease begins one to two weeks before symptoms appear, so a person may unknowingly infect or be infected by another person. As with any contagious disease, avoid close physical contact with others when you are sick and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

More Information/Questions
If your symptoms persist or worsen, medical treatment is available to all full time Messiah students. Call the Health Center at 691-6035 for more information.