What causes Mononucleosis (Mono)?
Mono is a viral infection caused by EBV (Epstein-Barr virus). This virus is transmitted through saliva. Mono symptoms usually include symptoms like sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fever, muscle aches, and severe fatigue. Symptoms of Mono can vary from mild to severe and can last from a few weeks to months.
Could I have Mono and be asymptomatic?
People who have mono can be contagious from the time they first become infected, but they may not know that they have the virus. It takes a while for mono symptoms (e.g. tiredness, fever, muscle aches, headache, or sore throat) to show up — about 1–2 months. This is called the incubation period. We recommend waiting until you have had symptoms to be tested for mono.
How is Mono treated?
The goal of mono treatment is to ease the symptoms. There is no medication that cures or shortens mono. Antibiotics are not helpful because mono is caused by a virus. Symptoms can be treated with non-prescription medications, such as ibuprofen. It is important to get a lot of rest and drink plenty of fluids during this time.
What are some side effects of mono?
Mono can affect virtually any organ system including the spleen and liver.
- Enlargement of the spleen — The spleen is an organ in the left upper abdomen, just under the diaphragm. It becomes temporarily enlarged in about half of people with Mono, making it susceptible to rupture if there is trauma to the abdomen. It is important to avoid activities that could cause abdominal trauma (such as contact sports) until you are fully recovered from Mono.
- Liver inflammation — The liver is an organ in the right upper abdomen. Mono causes temporary liver inflammation in most people, which can lead to elevated liver enzymes on common blood tests. These effects are self-limited. You should avoid alcohol and Tylenol (acetaminophen), which are metabolized by the liver, for at least 4 weeks if you have Mono.