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Key Points
- Mononucleosis, or mono, is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, most common among teenagers and young adults but can affect anyone.
- The virus spreads through saliva, such as from kissing, sharing utensils, or coughing.
- Symptoms of mono can vary, but often include fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, and muscle aches. Some may also experience a rash, enlarged spleen, or jaundice.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, a well-balanced diet, and supplements can help manage symptoms and support recovery.
- To prevent mono, avoid close contact with an infected person and sharing personal items.
Mono (short for “mononucleosis”) is a viral infection that is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is common among teenagers and young adults, but anyone can contract the virus regardless of their age, according to the Mayo Clinic. Mono is spread through contact with saliva, which can occur easily through kissing, sharing drinks or utensils, or even coughing or sneezing.
Symptoms of Mono
The symptoms of mono can vary greatly from person to person, but the Mayo Clinic lists the most common symptoms as:
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
In addition to these symptoms, the Mayo Clinic notes that some people may also experience a rash, enlarged spleen, or jaundice. It is important to note that not everyone with mono will experience all of these symptoms—and some people may not experience any symptoms at all.
In most cases, the Mayo Clinic notes that the symptoms of mono will go away on their own within a few weeks. But there are several things you can do for yourself at home that can help ease your symptoms and support your recovery.
What to do if you Have Mono
1. Take Over the Counter Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve the pain and fever associated with mono, according to Healthline. These medications can also help reduce inflammation and swelling in the throat and tonsils, they note.
2. Do Throat Gargles to Soothe a Sore Throat
Gargling with salt water or a mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation, according to Healthline. You can also try gargling with a mixture of warm water and honey to help coat your throat and reduce irritation.
3. Treat Your Fever
If you have a fever that is making you feel worse, you can take over-the-counter fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. You can also try a cool compress or a tepid bath to help bring down your body temperature, according to Healthline.
4. Rest
Rest is important when you have mono, according to Healthline. They note that you should make sure to get plenty of sleep and avoid strenuous activities until you have fully recovered.
4. Support Your Immune System with a Well-Balanced Diet
Eating a well-balanced diet can help support your immune system and speed up your recovery from mono, according to Healthline. You can get a well-balanced diet by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—while also avoiding highly processed foods and alcohol.
5. Supplements
Taking supplements such as echinacea and probiotics can also help support your immune system and speed up your recovery from mono, according to Healthline.
When to see a Doctor for Mono
Mono may clear up on its own within a week or two, according to the Mayo Clinic. They note that if your symptoms do not get better in that time, you should see a doctor.
How to Prevent Mono
Mono spreads through saliva and close contact with an infected person, according to the Mayo Clinic. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent mono, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting infected, according to the CDC:
- Avoid kissing someone who has the symptoms of mono
- Avoid sharing drinks, food, or personal items like toothbrushes with anyone
Summary
Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is common among teens and young adults—although it can also infect children and older adults. It spreads by contact with an infected person or by sharing personal items with an infected person. Common symptoms include feeling tired, sore throat, swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, head, muscle aches, and an inflamed spleen in some cases. Most of the time mono clears up within a week or two, but if you aren’t better within two weeks, you should see a doctor. During your recovery, you can do the following to help ease symptoms:
- Take over-the-counter medications for headaches, body aches, and fever
- Gargle with salt water if you have a sore throat
- Rest, especially if you feel fatigued
- Stay hydrated and eat a well-balanced diet to support your immune system
Frequently asked questions
What is mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis, also known as mono, is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It's most common in teenagers and young adults, but anyone can get it.How does mono spread?
Mono spreads through saliva. This can happen when someone with mono kisses someone else, shares utensils, or coughs.What are the symptoms of mono?
How can I manage the symptoms of mono?
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with symptoms like fever and muscle aches. Gargling with salt water or warm water and apple cider vinegar can help with a sore throat. Rest, a well-balanced diet, and supplements like echinacea and probiotics can also support recovery.How long does mono typically last?
Mono usually clears up on its own within a week or two. However, if symptoms persist, you should seek medical advice.How can I prevent getting mono?
To prevent mono, avoid close contact with someone who has the infection and avoid sharing personal items like utensils.Can everyone with mono experience the same symptoms?
No, not everyone with mono will experience the same symptoms. Some people may not have any symptoms at all.What should I do if my mono symptoms don't improve?
If your mono symptoms don't improve within a week or two, you should seek medical advice.
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