Infectious mononucleosis is an infection caused by a virus. This illness is often called "mono." You can get mono from close contact with someone who is infected. If you have mono, you may feel tired and have a sore throat, a headache, or a fever.
HOME CARE
• Rest as needed.
• Do not play contact sports, perform hard exercise, or lift anything that is heavy until your doctor says you can. You may need to wait a couple months before playing sports. Your liver or spleen might be swollen and could get hurt.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your pee (urine) clear or pale yellow.
• Do not drink alcohol.
• Take medicines only as told by your doctor. Do not give aspirin to children.
• Eat soft foods. Cold foods
such as ice cream or frozen ice pops can make your throat feel better.
• If you have a sore throat, rinse your mouth (gargle) with a mixture of salt and water. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water.
• Sucking on hard candy can also help a sore throat.
• Avoid kissing or sharing your drinking glass until your doctor says you are better.
GET HELP IF:
• Your fever does not go away after 10 days.
• Your swollen glands are not back to normal after 4 weeks.
• Your activity level is not back to normal after 2 months.
• You have a yellow color in your eyes and skin (jaundice).
• You have trouble pooping (constipation).
GET HELP RIGHT AWAY IF:
• You have strong pain in your belly or shoulder.
• You are drooling or have trouble swallowing.
• You have trouble breathing.
• You have a stiff neck.
• You have a bad headache.
• You keep throwing up (vomiting).
• You have twitching or shaking (convulsions).
• You are confused.
• You have trouble with balance.
• You have signs of body fluid loss (dehydration):
○ Weakness.
○ Sunken eyes.
○ Pale skin.
○ Dry mouth.
○ Fast breathing or heartbeat.