Mononucleosis - Symptoms & Treatment

Mononucleosis - or "mono" - is an infection which produces flu-like symptoms, and generally goes away on its own in a few weeks with the help of lots of fluids and rest. Mononucleosis is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), that infects B cells (B-lymphocytes), producing a reactive lymphocytosis and atypical T cells (T-lymphocytes) known as Downey bodies. EBV is very common, and many people have been divested to the virus at some time in childhood. Not everyone who is exposed to EBV develops the symptoms of mono, tho. As with many viruses, it is likely to be exposed to and infected with EBV without becoming sick. People who have been envenomed with EBV will carry the virus for the rest of their lives even if they never have any signs or signs of mono. The virus is typically transferred from asymptomatic personal through blood or saliva (thus "the kissing disease"), or by sharing a drink, or sharing eating utensils. The disease is far less contagious than is commonly believed. In rare cases a person may have a high resistance to infection. The disease is so-named as the count of mononuclear leukocytes rises expressively. There are two main types of mononuclear leukocytes: monocytes and lymphocytes .

Infectious mononucleosis, is a disease seen most commonly in teenagers and young adults, recognized by fever, sore throat, muscle soreness, and weariness. White patches on the tonsils or in the back of the throat may also be seen, (resembling strep throat ). This illness is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the herpes virus origin. Even though this virus is one of various herpes viruses, it has nothing to do with cold sores or genital herpes. Though it may trigger an blowup of either if you have those. It's distinguished as a herpes virus because once you've been infected, the virus stays in your body the rest of your life and may reappear in your saliva from time to time. Nevertheless, you probably won't get the symptoms of mono again from this virus. Mononucleosis is a respiratory virus which affects the blood cells and the salivary glands (the glands amenable for producing saliva).

Causes of Mononucleosis

Common causes and risk factor's of Mononucleosis include the following :

• Blood transfusion.
• Kissing .
• Adenovirus.
• Hepatitis A.
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Human herpes virus.
• Rubella.
• Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.

Symptoms of Mononucleosis

Some common Symptoms of Mononucleosis :

• Sore muscles.
• Fever .
• Night sweats.
• Headaches.
• Skin rash.
• Fatigue.
• Larger-than-normal liver and spleen.
• Weakness.
• Swollen tonsils.
• Loss of appetite.
• Abdominal pain.

Treatment of Mononucleosis

• The most effective treatment for mononucleosis is rest as a person's body requires time to combat off the infection.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Corticosteroids may be used to reduce swelling of the throat and tonsils.
• In most cases of mono, no definite treatment is necessary. The infirmity is usually self-limited and passes much the same way other common viral illness resolve.
• There is no specific treatment present. Antiviral medications do not help. A trial of steroid medication may be recommended for patients who have severe symptoms.