Infectious mononucleosis, or “mono,” as it’s most commonly known, is a viral infection. Teens and young adults are the two age groups it most often affects, but anyone can get it, no matter how old they are.

Although symptoms aren’t usually very severe, they can last for a long time. Our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team highlights more about this virus and its treatment options below, so keep reading!

What Is Mono?

Mono is a set of symptoms that’s almost always caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It’s affectionately known as the “kissing disease” because it is usually passed from person to person via saliva.

For most people, mono isn’t a life-threatening infection that goes away on its own. Extreme fatigue is usually the most prevalent symptom in most mono cases, but we’ve listed other common symptoms below.

Common Mono Symptoms

• Extreme fatigue
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Head and body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
• Swollen liver or spleen or both
• Rash

How Can Mono Be Treated?

Infectious mononucleosis can’t really be treated, unfortunately, since it’s caused by a virus. It will ultimately need to run its course before you start to feel better.

Mono “treatments” are generally aimed toward making symptoms like sore throats and fevers less severe, such as taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen and gargling salt water. If you or a loved one has mono, we’ve listed a few more things you can ease symptoms below.

Ways to Ease Mono Symptoms

• Get lots of rest.
• Stay hydrated, ideally by drinking water.
• Eat warm chicken soup.
• Boost your immune system by eating foods that are anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants, such as leafy green vegetables, apples, brown rice and salmon.

Are you feeling under the weather? If so, our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville can provide the non-emergency medical care that you need to feel better. Stop by today!