Signs & Symptoms of Mono (Kissing Disease)

Mononucleosis, called mono for short, is also called the kissing disease because it is spread through saliva. It comes from the Epstein-Barr virus. People who are infected with the virus develop antibodies making them immune from that point on.

Fatigue

• Extreme fatigue, general weakness and a loss of appetite are all signs of mono.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

• These are glands that are under your ear, arm and groin. If they are swollen and sensitive to touch, see your doctor.

Other Symptoms

• Night sweats, a tender spleen and a skin rash are all symptoms of mono as well. Some people exhibit all the signs of mono, and some only have a few.

Incubation

• Symptoms appear between four to six weeks after exposure to the virus. A blood test will determine if you have mono or another virus.

Recovery

• It takes a number of weeks for the fever and sore throat to disappear. Fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes and spleen can take many more weeks to go away entirely. Adequate rest and plenty of liquids are a necessary part of treatment.