What does fatigue feel like with glandular fever?

You may sleep more than usual yet still feel drained, and ordinary activities may require careful pacing. Concentration can be poor, with a sense of slowed thinking. Fatigue often appears alongside sore throat, swollen glands, fever, headache or aching muscles. Recovery is not always quick: energy may return gradually, and pushing through a temporary improvement can leave you more depleted afterwards.

Rest when your body asks for it, drink enough fluid and choose easy meals if your appetite is reduced. Increase activity in small steps rather than returning suddenly to a full routine. Avoid strenuous exercise and contact sports while you are unwell or until a clinician says they are suitable, because glandular fever can affect the spleen. Arrange review if fatigue persists or is preventing normal responsibilities.

Get urgent help for severe difficulty breathing or swallowing, intense abdominal pain, fainting, confusion or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Seek prompt advice if you cannot keep fluids down, fever is persistent or your condition suddenly worsens.

How can we confirm the cause of my symptoms? When can I return to exercise, work or school? Which activities should I avoid while recovering? What signs would mean I need urgent assessment?