How to Identify the Symptoms of Infectious Mononucleosis

Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono) is a highly contagious virus. Knowing the symptoms of Mono is a really good idea to help in the prevention of spreading the virus and in treating the virus.

Instructions

1. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and other parts of the body is a good indication that the body is fighting an infection. The lymphatic system acts as the body's natural filtration system and bacteria and viruses are trapped in the lymph nodes causing them to become swollen.

   Many people commonly refer to swollen lymph nodes in the neck as swollen glands incorrectly.

2. Tonsillitis may be a sign of infectious mononucleosis. Tonsils are actually lymph nodes in the mouth that trap viruses and bacteria just like any other lymph node. Often these become very red and very swollen causing severe pain when swallowing, eating and sometimes talking.

   If the tonsils are so infected that they are touching (often called Kissing Tonsils), they may have to be removed surgically.

   Very rarely tonsils become so swollen that they interfere with breathing. If this occurs, seek medical attention immediately.

3. Excessive sleeping or exhaustion is a symptom of Mono. As the body fights the infection, the body becomes weak. It is important for anyone fighting this infection to get plenty of rest and sleep. The body produces melatonin when sleeping which is partly responsible for cellular repair and healing.

4. A fever is generally accompanied by infectious mononucleosis. While not everyone comes down with a high fever, the majority of people present a temperature of 101 F degrees or more.

5. Infectious mononucleosis is transmitted by saliva which is why it is also known as the kissing disease. While kissing is not the only method of transmission, it is one of the major methods. Sharing beverages and lipsticks is another method of transmitting this virus.

   Infectious mononucleosis is generally transmitted by teenagers because of these habits of teenagers.

6. Infectious mononucleosis has an incubation period of 2-2.5 months. During this time it is possible to spread the infection before symptoms arise.

7. A blood test can confirm the infectious mononucleosis virus which is generally believed to be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.

8. Anyone presenting any of these symptoms should seek the advice of their doctor immediately.