So I have mono what should I do?
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How Can I Get Better?
There is no cure for mononucleosis. But the good news is that even if you do nothing, the illness will go away by itself, usually in 3 to 4 weeks. Because mono is caused by a virus, antibiotics such as penicillin won't help unless you have an additional infection like strep throat. In fact, certain antibiotics can even cause a rash if you take them while you have mono.
Although there's no magic pill for mono, you can do some things to feel better. The best treatment is to get plenty of rest, especially during the beginning stages of the illness when your symptoms are the worst. Put yourself to bed and pass on school, sports, and other activities.
For the fever and aching muscles, try taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Steer clear of aspirin unless your doctor tells you to take it: Aspirin has been linked to a serious disease in kids and teens called Reye syndrome, which can lead to liver failure and death.
If you have a sore throat, chew gum, drink tea with honey, or suck on hard candy or ice pops. Even if you're not hungry, try to eat a well-balanced diet and drink lots of water and juices to prevent dehydration. You can get some nutrition and soothe your throat with cold fruit smoothies or low-fat shakes.
When you start feeling better, take it slow. Although you can return to school once your fever disappears, you may still feel tired. Your body will tell you when it's time to rest — listen to it. By taking good care of yourself and resting as much as you need to, you will soon be back to normal, usually within a few weeks.
Doctors also recommend avoiding sports for at least a month after the illness because the spleen (an organ in the body that sits under the left rib cage) is often enlarged temporarily while you are ill. An enlarged spleen can rupture easily, causing internal bleeding and abdominal pain and requiring emergency surgery. Do not participate in contact sports, cheerleading, or even wrestling with your little siblings or your friends until your doctor gives you permission.
As you recover, make sure you don't share the virus with your friends and family. Chances are they will not get the disease from casual contact with you, but you can take a few steps to help them stay germ free. Wash your hands often, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and keep your drinks and eating utensils to yourself. This is one time when your friends and family will thank you for being selfish.
RN
Mono is highly contagious, and it doesn't get cured in 2 weeks, my best friend in high school had it for 6 months.
When you do have it stay off the phone, your breathing on the phone will put the germs on it and then it will pass on that way and stay away from everyone as much as possible.
Get lots of sleep and take the meds.
My friend couldn't even come to school until it was gone and when it was gone she had to come part time because she didn't have the energy to go a full day.
Good Luck!
you just hang out and sleep. that's all i did for 4 weeks. i didnt' even get medicine
You will have to forgo a social life for quite a while I'm afraid. Sleep as much as you can stand for as long as you can. Even after you are "well", you will have times where you are simply exhausted. Listen to your body. I remember doing fine for a long time and then I would have a couple of days where I would have to go to bed @ 8:00pm. Just don't overdo for awhile.
First of all, Mono is a viral infection, so it isn't cured by antibiotics. You might have had Strep throat before, which is cured by antibiotics. I had Strep throat the same time I had Mono. Secondly, Mono is transmitted through body fluids, such as saliva. That means no sharing sodas, no kissing, etc. People can't catch Mono from you just by being in the same room. Finally, Mono takes a long time for you to get over. You may have a sore throat, swollen glands, and fatigue for several weeks. The only thing you can do is take the maximum recommended dose of Advil, drink lots of fluids, and sleep as much as possible.
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