Let's learn about mononucleosis, also known as the "kissing disease," in simple terms.

Do you sometimes feel extremely tired with a fever and sore throat? Especially if you are young, when these symptoms come, it may not be just a simple cold. Today we are going to talk about a disease called "mononucleosis", also known as the "kissing disease", which is very common among young people. There is nothing to be afraid of, we will talk about this simply, in a way that you can understand.

What is mononucleosis?

Simply put, mononucleosis is a viral infection. It mainly causes a sore throat and fever. It is most common in teenagers and young adults in their twenties. The best part is that the illness usually goes away on its own after a few weeks of rest. Some people call it "mono" for short.

Why does this "mono" occur? What is the cause?

Mononucleosis, or infectious mononucleosis, is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, or EBV. Just think, we are all exposed to the EBV virus at a young age, in infancy or early childhood. That is, the virus enters our bodies. But the amazing thing is, when young children are infected with this virus, they often show very few symptoms, and sometimes they may not even feel anything. However, if someone is infected with the EBV virus at a young age, in their twenties or thirties, that is when the full range of symptoms that we call "mono" begin to appear.

What are the symptoms of "mono"?

Symptoms usually appear about one to two months after someone is infected with the virus. The main symptoms that appear during this time can sometimes be confused with a common cold or a bacterial infection of the throat (strep throat). Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this. The main symptoms that can be seen are:

• Fever
• Severe sore throat , as well as swollen tonsils . Sometimes, you can see white spots on these swollen tonsils.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck (we say they swell like a lump ).
• Feeling of unbearable fatigue .

Imagine, if you feel so weak and sleepy all day that you can't even get up in the morning, that could be a symptom of "mono."

In addition to these main symptoms, several other symptoms may be seen:

• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Weakness , weakness
• Stomach pain ( This is caused by the liver or spleen being larger than normal. The spleen is an organ located on the upper left side of our stomach.)
• A red rash on the skin
• Appetite

Is this "mono" disease contagious? How is it transmitted?

Yes, "mono" is a contagious disease. It is spread from person to person through saliva. That is, it is transmitted when someone's saliva enters another person's body. That is why it is called "the kissing disease" because it can be easily spread by kissing. Not only that, it can also be spread through droplets of saliva that are released when someone coughs or sneezes. Furthermore, if someone else uses something that has been used by someone and has been contaminated with saliva (for example, a straw, a drinking glass, a spoon, a fork, a toothbrush, etc.), it can also be spread. The chances of spreading "mono" through sexual contact or blood transfusions are very low. The most important thing is that once a person is infected with this virus, the virus remains in the body for life. Even after symptoms have gone away, and sometimes even without any symptoms, the virus remains in the body in a "dormant" or inactive state. Sometimes this dormant virus can "wake up" and be released into the saliva. This means that even if a person has no symptoms, they can still infect someone else, periodically throughout their life.

How does a doctor recognize this as "mono"?

When you go to see a doctor, he or she will first examine you. In particular, they will check to see if your tonsils are swollen, your lymph nodes in your neck are swollen, and your liver or spleen are enlarged. These are the main symptoms of "mono." Sometimes the doctor will also ask you to take a blood test.

What are the treatments for "mono"? What can you do at home?

The best treatment for mono is to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids, especially water. This is especially important early in the illness, when symptoms are mild. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and muscle aches.

But one thing must be kept in mind: Never give aspirin to young children or adults for fever!Because aspirin can cause a very dangerous condition called Reye syndrome. This can cause liver damage and sometimes even be life-threatening. Therefore, do not take any medicine without consulting a doctor.

How long does this "mono" illness last?

The symptoms of "mono" usually go away within two to four weeks . But for some young people, the extreme tiredness and weakness can last for months. When you feel better, don't go back to doing everything you were doing before. Start slowly. Even though you can go back to school after your fever has completely gone down, you may still feel tired. Your body will tell you when it's time to rest - listen to it. If you take good care of yourself and get enough rest, you can get back to normal quickly, usually within a few weeks.

Is there a way to avoid this "mono"?

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine yet to protect against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). But you can avoid close contact with someone who has the disease. If you have mono, it is very important to avoid spreading the virus to your friends and family until you are well.

• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
• When coughing or sneezing, cough/sneeze into a tissue or your elbow (not your hands).
• Do not share your water glasses, cups, plates, and cutlery with others.

It's okay to be a little selfish at this point! Your friends and family will thank you for it.

What else is important to know about "mono"? (especially about the spleen)

Another thing that can happen when you have mono is that your spleen, an organ in the upper left side of your abdomen, swells. This swelling can last for a few weeks or longer. A swollen spleen can rupture suddenly. If that happens, you can bleed into your abdomen and need emergency surgery. This is a very dangerous situation. That's why doctors tell people with mono to avoid contact sports - such as rugby, football, and boxing - for at least a month after their symptoms have completely gone . Also, avoid doing any strenuous activities until your doctor says you can.

Finally, let's remember this!

Most of the time, mono will go away on its own within a few weeks with plenty of rest and fluids. However, if you feel like your symptoms are continuing, or if they are getting worse, or if you have any other questions about this, be sure to see a doctor. Don't worry, with proper rest and care, you can get better quickly! Mononucleosis, Mononucleosis, EBV, Epstein-Barr Virus, The Kissing Disease, Fever, Sore Throat, Spleen