With the upcoming school year on the horizon, many illnesses are expected to start circulating in our communities. One common fall illness that poses a risk to many students is mononucleosis, or mono. Mono is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It primarily affects adolescents with a range of debilitating and uncomfortable symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between mono and sore throat, and the necessary steps for diagnosis and treatment.
For same-day mono testing and care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston, Our board-certified medical providers can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and offer treatment advice. The center is open seven days a week– simply walk-in at your convenience!
Mononucleosis Causes and Symptoms
Mononucleosis is highly contagious. Often referred to as the “kissing disease,” mono spreads through saliva. The virus can also be transmitted by sharing a glass or food utensils with an infected person. Mono symptoms can vary from person to person depending on the severity of infection and the overall health of the individual affected. The symptoms of mononucleosis can be moderately unpleasant, however it’s worth noting that the infection resolves on its own and does not typically cause any long-term health complications.
Common mono symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache
The Connection Between Mono and Sore Throat
A sore throat is one of the most common symptoms experienced by individuals with mono. The virus causes inflammation in the throat, resulting in pain, scratchiness, and irritation. The severity of sore throat can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, which can make swallowing and talking difficult. In some cases, you may notice the throat appears red and swollen, accompanied by white patches.
It’s important to note that a sore throat is a common symptom in many illnesses, like strep throat. It’s crucial to receive a professional diagnosis from a healthcare provider. Diagnosing mono involves a combination of factors. Your provider will perform a physical examination to check for swollen lymph nodes, tonsils, and other indicators. A blood test may be conducted to analyze the blood cell count to analyze for signs of mononucleosis.
Managing Mono Symptoms
Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for mononucleosis, and the infection generally resolves on its own within a few weeks to months. During this period, it’s important to manage the symptoms and take steps to promote recovery. Be sure to get adequate rest, plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort. Since mono is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective in treatment. It’s crucial to avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period as the spleen may become enlarged.
To alleviate a sore throat, try the following self-care methods:
- Gargle with saltwater
- Stay hydrated
- Honey and lemon
- Lozenges
- Use air humidifiers
- Avoid irritants
Get Same-Day Mono Testing at AFC Urgent Care Livingston
While a sore throat may be one of the primary symptoms of mono, other conditions could be present as well. For same-day mono diagnosis and symptom relief, visit AFC Urgent Care Livingston. The clinic is open seven days a week and offers treatment on a walk-in basis. We accept most major insurances and provide affordable pricing for all self-paying patients. Visit our center today to get started on your mono diagnosis and treatment plan. If you have any additional questions about mono symptoms, please call us directly at (973) 601-2626.
