What should you know about mono?

Glandular fever, also called infectious mononucleosis or mono, often causes a sore throat, swollen glands in the neck, fever, and marked fatigue. Feeling generally unwell and night sweats can also occur. A sore throat is a common presentation of glandular fever, but a sore throat alone does not show that mono is the cause. Symptoms overlap with other infections, so a clinician may use an examination and selected blood tests to clarify the diagnosis. Tiredness can remain after the throat and fever settle, and recovery is not identical for everyone.

Rest when fatigue is heavy, drink regularly, and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Use only medicines suitable for you and follow the label or a clinician's advice. Avoid sharing cups, utensils, toothbrushes, or drinks while you are unwell, because saliva can spread infection. Avoid strenuous activity and contact sports until a clinician says they are safe, especially if you have abdominal pain or have been told your spleen may be enlarged. Return to study, work, and exercise gradually as energy returns.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing or swallowing, inability to keep fluids down, severe or worsening abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Contact a clinician if fever persists, symptoms worsen after initial improvement, or fatigue makes ordinary activities difficult. Sudden severe pain in the upper left abdomen needs emergency assessment.

Ask which symptoms fit mono, whether testing is useful, how long to avoid strenuous activity, when it is reasonable to return to work or school, and how to pace activity during recovery.