Glandular Fever

GLANDULAR FEVER

Glandular fever. The Epstein-Barr virus is the primary cause of glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis or “mono.” Because it is spread through saliva, it is sometimes referred to as the “kissing disease.” Although it can affect people of all ages, young adults and teenagers are more likely to get glandular fever.

GLANDULAR FEVER

This article discusses the symptoms, recovery times, and spreading risks of glandular fever. The most common cause of it is an infection with the highly contagious herpes virus Epstein-Barr virus , which experts estimate affects over 90% of people worldwide. Rubella, also known as German measles, and cytomegalovirus infections can also cause it, while toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection, can cause similar symptoms. There is no cure for it, which typically goes away without treatment, but the fatigue is often persistent.

Signs

flu-like symptoms, such as headaches and body aches
A temperature of at least 100.4°F (38°C) and a broad, non-itching rash
nausea and appetite loss
weakness, weariness, lethargy, and malaise
puffiness and edema surrounding the eyes
a painful throat and lymph node swelling
Upper abdominal pain brought on by a swollen spleen, liver pain, and jaundice

Treatment

Glandular fever has no known cure, and some patients may have symptoms for up to six months.

Though exhaustion may persist longer, most people find that their symptoms fade gone in 2–4 weeks even in the absence of treatment.

The following actions can be taken to aid in the body’s healing process:

Rest. When a person has glandular fever, they may feel too exhausted and ill to carry on with their usual activities, but rest is essential, particularly during the first month after symptoms start. Light exercise may help them regain muscle strength as they recover. Drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration, especially if they have a fever. You should drink enough fluids even though swallowing may be difficult due to a sore throat.

Medication for pain relief
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are two examples of painkillers that are sold over the counter and online. They may help lessen fever symptoms.

Gargling
A sore throat may be eased by gargling with salt water or a store-bought remedy.

Steroids
A doctor might recommend a brief course of corticosteroids if the illness results in tonsil irritation.

Most EBV infections arise in early childhood. When it happens, the immune system generates antibodies to attack the infection.
The virus lies dormant in the pharynx and blood cells for the whole of a person’s life. Lifelong immunity is provided by the antibodies, and glandular fever seldom recurs.
However, the virus might occasionally reactivate. Symptoms may occasionally result from this, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. However, glandular fever or other symptoms are not necessarily the result of an EBV infection.

The disease primarily affects persons between the ages of 15 and 24. At least 1 in 4 young adults with EBV infections develop it, and it is less prevalent in people in other age groups. Those who get the virus as teenagers or young adults are more likely to develop glandular fever.

Summary

The Epstein-Barr virus is the most common cause of it, which is a viral infection that is common in young adults. The condition is known medically as infectious mononucleosis and can cause fever, lymph node swelling, and extreme fatigue. Although it usually goes away on its own in 2-4 weeks, people may continue to feel exhausted for up to 6 months after infection.