3 Unexpected Symptoms of Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis is also known as mono, and sometimes “the kissing disease,” since it can be transmitted orally. It’s a viral infection that can be challenging to identify. 

Even after diagnosis, it takes some time to recover from mono. That’s why it helps to be aware of lesser-known symptoms of mononucleosis.

At Mederi Urgent Care, located in the Melrose Hill neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, we help patients of all ages recover from conditions like mononucleosis. 

Our primary care and family medicine team walks you through the telltale symptoms and treatment options in this blog.

Dehydration and mono

Common symptoms of mono include fatigue and a sore throat. Dehydration is another common concern, which may complicate your recovery from the underlying virus.

If your illness makes you feel like you don’t want to eat or drink anything, and you’re also running a fever, you risk fluid loss and subsequent dehydration. 

Symptoms of dehydration include infrequent urination and dark yellow or malodorous urine. Dry lips and mouth are another warning sign to watch out for.

You can avoid dehydration by sipping fluids frequently. A little fluid intake, more frequently, works better to rehydrate you during illness. 

Drinking broth or warm tea soothes a sore throat and rehydrates you at the same time. Sherbet and popsicles are also a good way to boost your comfort and hydration while recovering.

 Severe dehydration may need intravenous (IV) fluids for treatment.

Mononucleosis, swelling, and breathing problems

Watch out for swelling in your throat and problems with breathing or swallowing. The infection may cause enlargement of your lymph nodes and tonsils. Your breathing might become blocked or strained.

If you’re struggling to catch your breath, it’s a warning sign you should pay attention to! Reach out to the Mederi Urgent Care team for support. 

We can provide treatment with corticosteroids to reduce swelling. Or, we can refer you to an ENT specialist if needed. 

Don’t ignore breathing issues, which can become a serious health threat without the proper care.

Mononucleosis and your spleen

You probably don’t think very often about your spleen. This organ, found on the upper left side of the abdomen, can enlarge as your body struggles to fight infection. 

The more your spleen is affected by swelling, the easier it becomes to injure. An injury to the spleen can cause internal bleeding that can quickly become life-threatening. 

A sharp, sudden pain on the left side of your abdomen may signal spleen problems. Because this part of your body is impacted by mono, you should also protect it as you recover. 

Wait until you’re better before returning to contact sports or other strenuous activities to avoid spleen complications. 

Your Mederi Urgent Care provider will discuss other limitations and restrictions during recovery, including a timeline for returning to routine activities. Follow these instructions carefully to avoid health complications.

With time and the proper treatment, you can recover completely from mono. If you think you might have an infection or need personalized support, contact Mederi Urgent Care online or over the phone today, or walk in for care.