Treatment of Infectious Mononucleosis:

In most cases of mononucleosis, no specific treatment is necessary. The illness is usually self-limited and passes much the same way other common viral illness resolve. Doctors will, however, recommend bedrest and fluids. When the patient's temperature returns to normal, they should gradually resume normal activities as strength returns.

Tips for the care of individuals with mono:

• For a fever and pain of swollen lymph glands: use acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• For a sore throat: drink milk shakes, fruit juices, and broths, and eat cool, bland foods. Additionally, gargle with saltwater and take aspirin.

Note: If mono is accompanied by a streptococcal infection of the throat, an antibiotic will be prescribed to treat that condition. In severe cases, corticosteroid drugs that reduce swelling may be prescribed.

• With an enlarged spleen: avoid contact sports for at least four weeks.

Most people recover in six to eight weeks, but in some cases take as long as six months for complete recovery. A tired feeling, which may include depression, is the last symptom to disappear. Mono may return in a milder form within a few months. Mono almost never reappears in full-blown form after a year.

It's generally wise to call the doctor if:

• Breathing becomes difficult or noisy
• Croup (an inflammation of the larynx accompanied by coughing, difficulty in breathing, fever, etc.) develops
• Abdominal pain occurs (especially high on the left)
• Skin becomes pale
• Bleeding into the skin occurs
• Swallowing becomes difficult
• Sleeping becomes very difficult
• Sinus or ear pain occurs
• Fever, still present after 10 days