Mononucleosis, also often referred to as simply mono, is a common viral infection that is usually associated with young adults and teens. Mono is sometimes called the “kissing disease” because it is commonly spread via saliva, so it can spread via kissing or sharing kitchen utensils. Mono causes many symptoms, with the most well-known being extreme fatigue. Coughing is usually not associated with mono and is more common with upper respiratory illnesses like a common cold or flu. In this article, we will provide more information about mono, the symptoms, treatment, and when to seek medical attention.
For same-day mono testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and make the best recommendations for care. Just walk-in today!
What Symptoms Are Common With Mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis causes many symptoms. The most often talked about are sore throat, full body fatigue, chills, and muscle aches. Mono is known for how it causes patients to feel the need to stay in bed all day as their entire bodies might ache, they experience high fever, and they experience severe fatigue. There are also some localized symptoms including swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, and sore throats.
Is Coughing Part Of Mono?
Coughing is rarely related to mono. There are often two reasons you might cough when you are sick. Sometimes coughing happens because airways are inflamed/irritated. For example, coughing is very common for allergies. When allergens like pollen get inside your airways there is irritation and inflammation. Similar to having an itch on your skin caused by an allergic reaction, you might feel an itch inside your throat.
The other common reason you cough when you are sick is the build-up of mucus. Certain infections like a cold or the flu can cause not only the production of excess mucus, but the mucus can also thicken. This leads to coughs and phlegm. Mono doesn’t frequently cause excess mucus or respiratory irritation.
That said, it might be possible to have a cough either because of the mono or because of multiple illnesses occurring at the same time. Mono can greatly weaken the immune system making a patient more susceptible to illnesses like the flu or common cold.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention For Mono?
You should consider seeking medical attention for suspected mono if you experience severe symptoms or complications. This includes intense fatigue, throat pain, or high fever. Additionally, if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, abdominal pain, or any skin discrepancies, seek medical attention promptly. Treatment options for mononucleosis focus on managing symptoms. This viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) typically resolves on its own over several weeks of supportive care. To help promote recovery and alleviate symptoms, focus on these treatments:
- Rest
- Hydration
- Avoiding contact sports
- Antiviral medications
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
If you believe you have mono or are experiencing concerning symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They can confirm the diagnosis through testing and offer guidance and treatment tailored to your unique health needs.
Get Walk-In Mono Testing at AFC Urgent Care Livingston
If you are concerned that you might have mononucleosis, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston for a same-day diagnosis and treatment plan. Mononucleosis is not only dangerous to the individual who has it but to anyone else nearby because it is contagious. Getting treatment can alleviate your symptoms, help you recover faster, and prevent the spread of the illness. If you live in the Livingston, NJ area and think you might have mono, visit us today! We’re open seven days a week and appointments are not required. Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any further questions about mono symptoms or treatment, contact us directly at (973) 601-2626.
