When is GP consultation recommended for glandular fever?

Glandular fever, also called infectious mononucleosis or mono, can cause a sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck, headache, and pronounced tiredness. The illness may last longer than an ordinary throat infection. A GP may examine your throat and abdomen, ask about fatigue and contact history, and decide whether blood tests are useful. Similar symptoms can be caused by other infections, so antibiotics are not automatically appropriate.

Rest, drink fluids, and use suitable pain or fever relief according to the label or advice from a pharmacist. Avoid sharing cups, cutlery, toothbrushes, or kissing while you are unwell. Because the spleen can become enlarged, avoid contact sports, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise until a clinician says it is safe to resume. Tell your GP about medicines and any liver problems.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, severe abdominal pain especially on the left side, collapse, confusion, or sudden worsening. Contact a GP if fatigue is interfering with daily activities, symptoms are not improving, or you need advice about returning to exercise, school, or work.

Ask whether testing is needed, how long to rest, which activities to avoid, when close contact is reasonable, and what symptoms should prompt another review.