Infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is transmitted mainly by saliva, and there is no specific treatment, as the body eliminates the virus and the disease disappears within 1 month. However, mononucleosis causes fever, headache and whitish plaques in the throat and red patches on the skin may appear, which is why some medications are used to relieve these symptoms.
When the symptoms of mononucleosis do not go away or are very strong, the general practitioner or pediatrician can prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation caused by the virus or antivirals that help to clear the infection.
In some situations, the doctor may order some tests such as ultrasound to check if the spleen is enlarged or a blood test to analyze whether the virus has been completely eliminated from the body.
It is also important in the treatment for mononucleosis to maintain rest, drink plenty of fluids and maintain a healthy diet. However, the most suitable treatments for mononucleosis are:
Use of medicines
There are no drugs that can treat mononucleosis, as the virus is eliminated by the body's own defenses. However, as mononucleosis can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as fever, headache, sore throat or severe tiredness, the general practitioner may recommend painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin.
In some cases, at the same time that mononucleosis occurs, there may be an infection by bacteria in the throat and only in these situations the antibiotic is recommended.
Antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir and ganciclovir, for example, can help decrease the amount of viruses in the body. However, they are not always advised, being indicated only in cases where the body's defenses are compromised and the symptoms are very strong.
Corticosteroids can be prescribed by the doctor, especially when the throat is very inflamed and the fever does not go away, that is, they should not be used in all situations.
Treatment for mononucleosis in children is practically the same as treatment in adults, except for aspiration, as it can cause Reye's syndrome, in which brain inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver occurs. The most important thing is to offer the child plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Natural treatment options
Some recommendations are indicated to improve the symptoms of mononucleosis such as:
- Rest: it is important to rest, especially in the case of fever and muscle pain; Gargling with water and salt: helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the throat; Drink plenty of water: it is important to maintain hydration to facilitate recovery; Avoid physical activity: because physical activities can cause the spleen to rupture.
In order not to transmit the virus to other people, it is important to wash your hands several times a day, in addition to avoid sharing objects contaminated with saliva, such as cutlery and glasses.
Other substances, such as echinacea, can be used to assist the treatment for mononucleosis, mainly due to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect they have. However, it is necessary to follow the doctor's recommendations before using any natural substance. Learn more about home remedy for mononucleosis.
Signs of improvement
Signs of improvement in mononucleosis include a decrease and disappearance of fever, relief of sore throats and headaches, a decrease and disappearance of swelling of the tongue, disappearance of whitish plaques in the mouth and throat and red spots on the body.
Signs of worsening
Signs of worsening mononucleosis include severe abdominal pain, swelling of the neck, increased inflammation and sore throat, and increased fever.
When the person shows signs of worsening, it may be necessary to have to be hospitalized to receive the drugs through the vein, so it is important to inform the doctor if there is severe abdominal pain or if the symptoms worsen after 1 month.
