Adult Mononucleosis Treatments

Mononucleosis is an infection that almost every human being suffers from, at least once in his or her life. The virus that causes the infection is known as the Epstein-Barr virus, and is extremely common all over the world. Usually, the infection caused by this virus is very mild, especially when it occurs during childhood. In fact, during childhood, the infection often causes no symptoms at all. In underdeveloped countries, this is usually what happens – people are exposed to the virus during childhood, and in later life are immune to it. On the other hand, in developed countries, exposure to the virus is much less likely, as a result of which very few children develop mononucleosis. However, this means that exposure to the virus in adulthood will usually result in a rather severe infection. Among adults, mononucleosis typically results in fever and a sore throat, which is often accompanied by a constant feeling of tiredness. The lymph nodes in the neck also usually become swollen and may be slightly painful. There may also be headaches and nausea, loss of appetite, and sensitivity to bright light. Less obvious symptoms include enlargement of the spleen and inflammation of the liver cells, essentially hepatitis. In some cases, the hepatitis can be severe enough to lead to jaundice. The spleen may also be so badly affected as to rupture, which is a medical emergency that requires hospitalization. Mild complications also often develop alongside mononucleosis, such as secondary bacterial infections. In rare cases, there may be more serious complications, such as meningitis or inflammation of the heart muscles.

Since mononucleosis is caused by a virus, antibiotics are useless against it. Antiviral medications are also usually avoided, because they have unnecessary side effects. The infection is usually quite mild, and in most cases the patient recovers with only symptomatic treatment. This primarily consists of complete rest, combined with non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other painkillers to control the fever and pain. Rest is particularly important, not just to avoid putting an unnecessary strain on your system, but to reduce the chances of rupturing the spleen. If you develop a sore throat, the best way to soothe it is to gargle with warm salt water several times a day. It is also advisable to drink plenty of water so as to reduce the risk of dehydration. Beyond this, your doctor will prescribe a more specific treatment, depending on your symptoms.