Mononucleosis (also called 'mono') is an illness, caused by
infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, that most often affects young adults.
Symptoms of mononucleosis include high fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes
(glands), and fatigue.
Symptoms tend to be mild in young children and worse in teens and
adults. The illness also causes the spleen (an organ in the abdomen) to swell,
so a person who has mono needs to avoid activities that could injure the
abdomen.
Mono is usually a mild illness that goes away without treatment
after several weeks. During this time, symptoms may come and go and may change
with time. It is normal for the lymph nodes to remain enlarged for up to a
month. Fatigue that makes normal activities difficult or impossible may linger
for 2 to 3 months. There is no specific treatment except rest, plenty of
fluids, and nonprescription pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and
ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), for body aches. Aspirin should not be given to
anyone younger than age 20 because its use has been linked to Reye's syndrome,
a serious illness.
