THE DISABLING DISEASES: MONONUCLEOSIS
March 11th, 2009 | Posted by admin | Category: General healthNo Comments
Mononucleosis, also called infectious mononucleosis and glandular fever, can cause a surprisingly prolonged degree of disability for what may seem to be a mild illness. It frequently damages the liver temporarily. Because of this potentially serious complication, medical care and adequate bed rest are essential in order to prevent permanent damage to this vital organ. This is particularly true because infectious mononucleosis affects young adults chiefly, and young people are often impatient when it comes to taking sufficient rest.
This disease appears to be caused by a virus. It frequently affects college students, soldiers, nurses, and other young people who live in groups. The symptoms are fever, sore throat, swelling of the glands of the neck, and weakness and fatigue. There may be skin rashes. Jaundice will occur if the liver has been sufficiently involved. A special blood test can make the diagnosis more definite. Usually the disease clears up in a few weeks, but it may leave the person weak and easily tired for months thereafter.
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