Infectious Mononucleosis

Consult a doctor

Call a doctor for an appointment if any signs or symptoms of mononucleosis appear. Diagnosis of the illness by a doctor is important to make sure it is not another medical condition that may require more extensive medical evaluation and treatment.

or for suspected mononucleosis. The following signs and symptoms require urgent evaluation:

• difficulty breathing,
• difficulty swallowing (severe sore throat),
• abdominal pain (may signal that the spleen has ruptured,)
• bleeding from the gums or easy bruising,
• seizures,
• severe headaches,
• chest pain,
• inability to drink fluids (may lead to dehydration),
• severe weakness in the arms or legs, and
• yellow discoloration of the skin.

Self-Care at Home

Home care with plenty of rest and fluids is essential for someone with mono.

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) for fever and pain control.
• Throat lozenges or gargling with warm saltwater may soothe a sore throat.
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Rest in bed and limit activity according to the degree of the illness.

Avoid strenuous exercise and contact sports until the doctor allows resumption of activities. The spleen may be enlarged, and vigorous activity may cause it to rupture. Most doctors believe that a person with mono should postpone strenuous activities for at least one month after the onset of symptoms or until the spleen has returned to its normal size.