Symptoms of Mono in a Female

Mononucleosis, or mono, is an infectious disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which raises lymphocytes, a white blood cell. Mono is more common in adolescents, since most people over 30 years have had exposure to Epstein-Barr, creating preventative antibodies.

Cause

• Mononucleosis spreads through saliva, earning the nickname the "kissing disease." Sneezing and coughing also cause the spread of mono by expelling infected saliva into the air.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of mono resemble a fever at first, followed by exhaustion, weakness, loss of appetite and night sweats. Swollen lymph nodes, a severe sore throat, rash, headache and a swollen spleen are some of the more uncomfortable or painful aspects of mono.

Prevention

• There are no vaccinations to prevent mono, so it is important to prevent spreading the infection by not kissing or sharing food and liquids with others while in the infective period.

Treatment

• There are no antibodies for mono, but it goes away on its own after about a month. Treatment of mono is limited to easing the discomfort of the symptoms. Secondary illnesses such as strep throat are also common and are treated with antibodies such as Amoxicillin.

Warning

• Mono usually does not become a serious condition but can cause internal problems. The enlarged spleen could rupture, resulting in severe pain. Medical attention is crucial if this happens, since surgery may be necessary.