Glandular fever or mononucleosis is an infectious disease that spreads through saliva. The disease can also spread via coughing or sneezing. Generally, mononucleosis causes development of pink rashes all over the body. In addition, the rashes can become severe if antibiotics are used.
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Glandular fever usually affects children especially below 3 years old and young adults. It causes sore throat, fatigue, fever, swollen lymph nodes and glands. The condition is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus that has an incubation period of 1-2 months for adults and shorter for children.
Common symptoms of glandular fever
- At first, severe fatigue
It causes sore throat, fatigue, fever, swollen lymph nodes and glands. - Red skin rash that is not itchy which spreads all over the body
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Flu-like symptoms such as aches, fever and an increase in the body temperature, headaches and feeling sick.
- Malaise
- Sore throat
- Swelling around the eyes
- In addition, swollen glands usually in the neck and the armpits
- Lastly, mild inflammation of the liver
Treatment
- Encourage the individual to rest after the symptoms develop. Generally, the person is too tired and not capable of performing regular activities. Perform light gentle exercises after the symptoms subsides to regain muscle strenght.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Take over-the-counter pain medications to lessen the fever and pain. Avoid giving aspirin to children below 16 years old.
- Apply a cold compress on the affected area if suffering from localized pain such as eye discomfort.
- Gargle salt water solution to lessen the discomfort of the sore throat. In a glass filled with warm water, mx a teaspoon of table salt. Mix well until salt dissolves and gargle the solution for a few seconds and spit it out.
- Take the prescribed antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria from secondary infections.
Tips
- Boost the immune system using Echinacea.
- Keep the body well hydrated and get plenty of rest and sleep
- Take vitamin C and zinc supplement to minimize the infections
- In a bathtub filled with water, mix a few drops of lavender oil and take a bath in the solution to minimize the headache and soreness of the muscles.
- Eat foods rich in protein such as chicken, eggs, fish and legumes to boost the immunity of the body and rebuild muscle mass.
- Take vitamin B12 supplements for metabolism and formation of red blood cells as well as proper functioning of the nervous system.
FACT CHECK
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/glandular-fever/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/167390.php
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/glandular-fever