Mononucleosis, or mono, is often referred to as "the kissing disease,"
because direct contact with virus-infected saliva, such as by kissing, can
spread the virus that causes infectious mononucleosis. Children, especially
adolescents and young adults, are at higher risk than adults of contracting
viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is the primary cause of
mono. In the United States, the occurrence of infectious mononucleosis peaks in
later adolescence, between ages 15 to 19. Interestingly, mono tends to be more
prevalent in areas with higher standards of hygiene. Although there is plenty of
research on the positive effects of relaxation in boosting the immune system,
there is little information on how effective relaxation techniques may be in
treating mono. Nevertheless, it stands to reason that boosting immune function
in general reduces risk of any infection. There is also evidence that nutrition
and plant-based medicines may help reduce the symptoms of mono as well as and
complications linked to it.
Mono is sometimes confused with chronic fatigue syndrome, a disorder with
similar symptoms, but which is not caused by EBV. Typical mono symptoms may take
between 4 and 7 weeks to develop after exposure to the virus, and can last only
a few days or as long as several months. These symptoms may include fever,
fatigue, sore throat (often severe), swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes in the
neck, enlargement of the spleen or liver, rash, or headache.
If your healthcare provider suspects that you have mono, he or she will do a
physical examination and may order a blood test to confirm the diagnosis of
mono. Your provider may also prescribe acetaminophen and corticosteroids, such
as prednisone, to treat obstructed airway passages from enlarged tonsils.
(Children with mono should not take aspirin because of the risk of developing
Reye's syndrome, a rare condition that can affect the liver, brain, and other
organs.)
Household members or college roommates run only a slight risk of being
infected unless they come into direct contact with your saliva, so it is
generally not necessary to be quarantined, although complete rest is necessary
when symptoms are severe. As your symptoms improve, you may gradually increase
activity. You will probably be able to return to school or work in a few weeks,
although there is a remote chance that the fatigue will linger for months
afterwards. Because of the risk of rupturing the spleen, you should avoid
contact sports and heavy lifting for 2 months.
Herbs and Supplements
Taking folate supplements may speed recovery. Folate (vitamin B9) shortage
may relate to fatigue and a long recovery period following a viral infection,
including EBV.
Echinacea (Echinacea sp.), wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria),
and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) may boost immunity and improve the
flow of lymph. Retinoic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid are derivatives of licorice
root and may be used for similar purposes. Astragalus (Astragalus
membranaceus) and lomatium (Lomatium dissectum), which have deeper
immune-enhancing properties, are used to treat established infections or chronic
problems. To avoid the possibility of interactions with medications you are
taking, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before taking
herbs.
Homeopathy
An experienced homeopathic practitioner will consider your individual case
and may recommend treatments to address both your underlying condition and any
current symptoms. Some homeopathic remedies that may be suggested include
Belladonna, Ferrum phosphorica, and Kali muriaticum, all of
which may be helpful for symptoms associated with mononucleosis. Belladonna
is used in the first 12 to 24 hours to treat fever; red face and lips and
dry, red throat. Ferrum phosphorica and Kali muriaticum are then
alternated every hour to alleviate fever, painful cough, sore chest, occasional
night sweats, and extremely swollen tonsils. Depending on your symptoms, a
homeopath may also recommend other remedies including but not limited to
Mercurius, Phytolacca, Lachesis, Conium, Hepar sulphuris calcareum, Cistus
canadensis, Baryta carbonica, and Carcinosin. For homeopathic
treatment, see a licensed, certified practitioner.
As with all infectious diseases, the key lies in prevention. Eliminating
stress and maintaining your immune system at optimum levels will give you a
fighting chance against mononucleosis.
