Information and facts on Mononucleosis

 

Mononucleosis, known as “mono” is an acute infection of the throat and lymph nodes caused by the Epstein-Barr virus 85% of the time and less often by cytomegalvirus. Mono is often mistaken for Flu many times. In childhood, the disease is mild and can pass unnoticed. However, when an adult contracts mononucleosis, the symptoms are usually more severe. Because the virus is transmitted through infected saliva, mononucleosis is sometimes called “kissing disease.” The virus may also be spread through coughing or sneezing as well as kissing. The condition gets its name from a characteristic increase in the number of mononuclear white blood cells. The symptoms of mononucleosis include: achy feeling and discomfort, depression, fatigue, weakness, jaundice, appetite loss, headache, feeling chilled, moderate to high fever, sore throat, lymph nodes that become enlarged and remain that way for a week or more, and a bumpy red rash. A doctor’s examination might reveal an enlarged spleen and/or abnormal liver function. A person who has mononucleosis normally feels weak and very tired and just worn out with no energy.

Mononucleosis is common among children and teens. The mono infection normally lasts between 2 to 4 weeks, although the older a person is, the more severe the symptoms and the longer the recovery time. It is common to feel more tired than usual for several months after having mono. Complications of the disease include: obstruction of the upper airway, difficulty swallowing, weak immune system, and liver disease. In severe cases, the spleen may become very enlarged and then rupture normally caused by a fall or similar accident, making emergency surgery required. Mononucleosis must be diagnosed by a blood test that detects an elevated concentration of antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus, an elevated lymphocyte "white blood cell" count, or other characteristic abnormalities. If these tests confirm a diagnosis of mono, your liver function will probably be measured as well, and your doctor will do a physical examination to check for an enlarged spleen or liver, and to look for pus and inflammation in the back of your throat.

Other Changes To Make

• drink 6-8 glasses of steam distilled or filtered water a day

• eat 50% raw fruits and vegetables (organic is best)

• nuts, seeds, and whole grains are good

• juice is good (make your own with a juice machine)

• do not worry as much about calories as eating the right foods

• carrot and celery sticks are good to use as a snack

• a colon cleansing can be very helpful - (do several times each year)

• do not drink coffee, alcohol, soda pop, other junk food drinks

• do not eat processed foods white sugar, white flour, etc...

• use stress relief like going for walks in the park (or the 10/90 rule - see Stress)

• brown rice is good to eat

• avoid red meat and animal fats

• reduce dairy products cheese, milk, and others

• fast a few days a month

• get at least 8 hours of sleep 

• exercise light to moderate amounts

• avoid artificial sweeteners like Aspartame and NutraSweet

• do not smoke and avoid second hand smoke

• do not skip meals - just eat better and not as much at each meal

• do not chew gum - it can cause you to feel hungry

• do not watch too much TV try reading a book or something else

All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or to administer to any physical ailments.
In all matters related to your health please contact a qualified, licensed Medical Consultant or Doctor.