Treatment For Mononucleosis

If diagnosed with Mononucleosis, it is important to understand the treatment for Mononucleosis. This infectious disease is caused by the Epstein Barr virus and is spread through saliva and mucous. Currently there are no antibiotics or antiviral drugs that effectively treat Mononucleosis. The most effective treatment for Mononucleosis is rest and common sense.

To treat Mononucleosis, you will need:

• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Salt
• Throat Lozenges

1. Rest. The most important treatment for Mononucleosis is rest. Get as much bed rest as you can for the first two weeks of the disease. A strong symptom of Mononucleosis is fatigue. You will likely feel like staying in bed for the first couple of weeks anyway. Rest and sleep as much as possible.
2. Pain relief. Mononucleosis causes body aches and sore throat. Take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to control the pain. Follow the dosage instructions on the label.
3. Soothe a sore throat. Gargle with warm salt water every two hours. Mix a teaspoon of salt and eight ounces of warm water in a glass. Gargle all of the salt water. This will soothe throat pain and promote healing.
4. Take it easy. For the first four to six weeks of Mononucleosis it is important to curb your physical activities. Avoid sports, exercise, heavy lifting, or any strenuous activities. Too much activity can cause serious complications.

Tip:

• Slowly eating a popsicle, ice cream, or frozen dessert will help soothe a sore throat.

Warning:

• Mononucleosis causes the spleen to swell and too much activity can cause a rare rupture of the spleen. The main symptom of a ruptured spleen is sudden sharp pain over the left upper abdomen. Get emergency treatment by calling 911.