Mononucleosis is one of the common human diseases in the world. It commonly affects teenagers and adults. Mono spreads through saliva by coughing or sneezing, sharing drinks and food, and using the same cups or toothbrushes, etc. The virus which causes mono is called Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Most people will get infected with this virus in their lifetime. It can also spread through blood transformations and organ transplantations. For most people, mono is not a serious issue, it can be improved without treatment. But extreme fatigue can interfere with their daily life. If you have symptoms of EBV, your doctor may recommend you a test. The EBV Monospot test is used to determine whether a person is influenced by EBV infection or not.
Monospot test:
The Monospot test is a blood test used to detect the mono-infection caused by Epstein-Barr Virus in our blood. The sample of blood mixed with other substances is placed on the microscope slide. If the blood strongly sticks together, it indicates that the mono-infection is present. In rare cases, if the test becomes positive even when you don’t have mono-infection it means you may have another infectious disease like hepatitis. And if the test becomes negative it may mean the test was performed too early. Your doctor may recommend you to do a second test after some days to detect the virus.
Symptoms of mononucleosis:
EBV infections in childhood usually do not show symptoms. Usually, teenagers or adults get symptoms from EBV infection. If you get an EBV infection, the virus may be hidden in your body and do not show any symptoms. But if the virus reacts it shows various symptoms like:
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Weakness
- Swollen tonsils
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
Treatment of mononucleosis:
There is no specific treatment for mononucleosis. So instead of treatment focus on caring for yourself so that’s why you will feel better. To get rid of this virus:
- It is very important to take a rest if you have mono. Mono makes you very tired. Resting helps your body to prevent any compilations and helps your body to fight infection.
- Eat healthy and fiber-rich foods like green vegetables, apples, tomatoes, and brown rice, etc. They help your immune system fight the mono virus.
- Avoid things like white rice, white bread, cold drinks, and fried foods, etc.
- Wash your hands several times a day and do not touch your face and eyes.
- Drink plenty of water, fruit juices, and chicken stock to prevent dehydration.
- Use pain killers if you are suffering from headaches or muscle aches. But do not take too much. It can be harmful.
- You can gargle with salt and water several times a day.
- Avoid physical activities like sports and exercise.
Complications of mononucleosis:
Complications of mononucleosis may include:
- Strep throat:
Strep throat is an infection that causes swelling and pain in the throat. Sneezing and coughing can spread this infection from one person to another. If you experience, difficulty in breathing, difficulty in eating food, a lot of pain, and a sore throat continue to more than 3 days, you will need urgent care strep test. This test determines whether your sore throat is caused by infection or another type of germ. Your doctor will clean your throat with a long cotton cleaner. Then this sample is sent to a lab to look at the signs of infection.
- Liver issues:
Liver problems also may occur. You may experience serious liver inflammation (hepatitis).
- Heart problems:
Inflammation of heart muscle may occur. This is a less common complication.
- Swollen tonsils:
You may experience swollen tonsils which will block breathing.
