What is mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis is a viral infection which is caused by the virus Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is also called as Pfeiffer's disease, Mono, Glandular fever and kissing disease. EBV is the most common cause of mono but there are other viruses such as cytomegalovirus, which causes similar illness. It occurs most commonly among teenagers and even infants and toddlers are prone to this disease.

As the name itself suggests, mono or the kissing disease is spread through saliva and is a communicable disease. It can also spread through the tears and mucus of the nose, sharing glass, plates, toothbrush etc.

Some of the symptoms of glandular fever are: fatigue, sore throat, fever, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, headache, jaundice, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, depression etc. It usually takes around 4-6 weeks for the symptoms to appear. So, even if we are exposed to the virus we might not know right away.

Also, people who are infected by the virus do not always necessarily develop the mononucleosis symptoms. However, once we are exposed to the virus whether we develop the symptoms or not, the virus will remain in our body throughout life.

Though there is no cure for the mononucleosis virus, it goes away itself. However, the best way to deal with it is only through self-care. Build a strong immune system by following a strict balanced diet. Take adequate rest, drink lots of fluid and practice of good hygiene will help in fighting against the disease. Avoid excessive hard work, fatigue and sports activity.

So with adequate information about the disease, we can always have an upper hand on any health related issues. Nothing is impossible, if we have the will and desire to overcome any obstacle.