What's the Best Treatment for Mono?

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What's the Best Treatment for Mono?

 

What treatment is available for mononucleosis, and is it possible to

continue to work if you have mono?

 

-- Irene Chun

 

Today's Answer

(Published 04/11/2002)

 

Mononucleosis, or more properly, infectious mononucleosis, is caused

by the Epstein Barr virus, a herpes virus related to the agents that

cause cold sores and chicken pox.

 

Most people get mono at some point in their lives, usually during

childhood and, usually, the disease is so mild that youngsters don't

even know they're infected. The virus then stays in the body for

life, usually causing no further trouble. It seems that the older

you are when you first catch mono, the worse your symptoms can

become.

 

Some people, who are run down or whose immune systems are depressed,

can get quite sick with mono.

 

Symptoms typically include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes

and exhaustion. The fatigue often can be overwhelming, keeping

people in bed for several weeks.

 

The best treatment is rest, at least for the duration of the

fatigue – usually a week or two.

To relieve the sore throat, drink lots of fluids and gargle with

salt water.

 

I would suggest taking astragalus (Astragalus membranceous), a

traditional treatment in Chinese medicine with immune-boosting

effects.

 

Take two capsules twice a day unless the product directs otherwise.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpera) can also help – the dose is a teaspoon

of tincture in water four times a day or two capsules of freeze-

dried extract four times a day until symptoms disappear.

 

In addition to treatment, be sure to wash the dishes and utensils

used by people with mono – and don't share food with them. The virus

is passed through saliva, which is how mono earned its nickname " the

kissing disease. "

 

As for continuing to work if you have mono – that depends on the

severity of your symptoms.

 

You may recall that speed skater Chris Witty won a Gold Medal at the

2002 Olympics despite having mono. Of course, most people don't have

the motivation and stamina of Olympic athletes and it is best to

avoid sports, exercise and other physical activities for about 3 to

4 weeks after infection starts. Moving around too much puts you at

risk of rupturing your spleen so wait until you get the go-ahead

from your doctor before resuming physical activities.

 

I don't advise pushing through viral fatigue in order to work,

because you'll probably just prolong your recovery.

 

You would be better off resting until the fatigue ebbs and your

energy returns.

 

Dr. Andrew Weil