Mononucleosis, also known as mono disease, is a disease that is spread through kissing and is brought on by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is spread through saliva. In addition to kissing, the disease can also be spread by sharing utensils or glasses with other infected people.

According to the Mayo Clinic, mono symptoms include the following:

• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
• Swollen tonsils
• Headache
• Rash on the skin
• The spleen softens and swells

The incubation period for this virus is approximately 4-6 weeks; fever and sore throat may resolve in a few weeks, but fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and swollen spleen will last longer.

According to Healthline, the following people are at risk of acquiring mono:

• Age 15-30 years
• Student
• Intern doctor
• Nurse
• Caregiver
• Those with weak immune system

If not immediately detected and treated, mono can cause problems with organs in the body. As reported by the Mayo Clinic, here are some of the disease risks associated with mono:

• Spleen swelling

In extreme cases, the spleen may swell and tear, causing pain in the upper left part of the stomach. When the spleen is ruptured, surgery should be performed immediately.

• Liver diseases

Mono infection additionally leads to jaundice and hepatitis

In addition, mono disease may result in complications in other medical conditions like:

• Anemia is the result of low red blood cells brought on by low blood iron levels.
• Low platelets, or thrombocytopenia
• Heart disease: myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart muscle
• Nervous system complications, including Guillain-Barre syndrome, encephalitis, and meningitis
• Enlarged tonsils, which may result in respiratory issues

Mononucleosis can be identified via a blood test. Tests typically performed to identify mono infection include the following:

• Antibody test: to determine whether antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus infection are present
• White blood cell test: to determine whether the quantity of white blood cells has increased

Treatment

There are two possible methods to treating mono:

• The first option is to treat the infection and its complications. As a complication of mono, you may be prescribed antibiotics.

If you complain of respiratory tract narrowing, the doctor will prescribe corticosteroids.

• The second method involves administering antibiotics to treat rashes caused by antibiotic allergies.

Amoxicillin and other antibiotics, including penicillin, are not recommended for people who have mono because they can cause allergic reactions such as rashes. However, antibiotics are sometimes used to treat infections that have become complicated.

According to Healthline, there are several home treatments available:

• Because it is a virus, you should get lots of rest so that your body can recover quickly
• Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated
• Warm chicken soup can restore energy and provide a sense of comfort
• Consume anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods to boost your immune system
• Taking acetaminophen for pain and headaches