In the majority of people, mononucleosis symptoms are mild and short-lived. Most people get over their mono symptoms in about 2 - 4 weeks. However there are cases where mononucleosis symptoms can escalate to the point where they becoming serious or life-threatening. Let's have a look at the mononucleosis symptoms that should never be ignored.
High fever
In the initial, acute stage of mono, fever is common. Fever does not normally rise above 38-40 degrees C. However if you are overdressed, covered in blankets or confined to a hot place (like a hot car), your fever can rise to dangerous levels.
High fever can trigger convulsions, particularly in children so it is advisable to monitor temperature carefully. If a fever does exceed 40 degrees C then it can be bought down safely by having a luke warm bath or sponging the body with warm water. Focus on sponging under the arm pits, in the groin and on the back of the neck. Don't use cold water as this can shock the body and cause shivering.
Some people use panadol to reduce pain and fever however aspirin should be avoided as it has been associated with Reye's syndrome - a potentially fatal disorder that causes brain and liver inflammation.
Breathing difficulties
Mononucleosis symptoms of enlarged glands and a swollen throat can make breathing and swallowing difficult. If you find you can't get air into your lungs or you can't swallow your saliva then an immediate trip to your doctor or hospital is advisable.
Ruptured spleen
An enlarged spleen occurs in about half of all mono patients. In about one or two of every thousand mono cases, the spleen will rupture causing internal bleeding and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency that requires hospitalization and a possible blood transfusion.
Signs of a ruptured spleen can include pain and discomfort in the left abdominal area, feeling lightheaded or faint, palpitations, breathing problems and easy bleeding.
Strep throat
A severe, painful throat that is red and swollen may indicate a secondary infection of the bacteria Streptococcus. There may also be a coated tongue and a discharge on the tonsils.
If you have suspect you have strep throat then see your doctor who should do a swab to see if antibiotics are needed. Untreated strep can be serious, leading to complications like kidney problems, rheumatic fever, arthritis or systemic infection throughout the body.
If you exhibit any of the above mononucleosis symptoms then please visit your doctor or hospital. It is better to err on the side of caution rather than ignore these mononucleosis symptoms and end up seriously ill.
For further information on mononucleosis symptoms please refer to the e-book "Nature's Amazing Mono Cures" by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.
Many people exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus do not show symptoms of the disease, but carry the virus and can transmit it to others. This is especially true in children, in whom infection seldom causes more than a very mild illness which often goes undiagnosed.
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