If, after completing a health history and physical exam, a health care provider suspects mono a blood test will be done to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for mono is aimed at alleviating symptoms. Since it is a viral illness antibiotics are NOT useful. If, however, a secondary infection develops, such as a strep throat or sinus infection, then antibiotics are needed. Tylenol or Advil may be used for fever, body aches or throat pain.
Extra rest is highly recommended.
Although the worst of the symptoms usually resolve in one to two weeks, it may take several weeks to months to fully recover. In the meantime, students may attend classes as tolerated. Contact sports are not recommended for 4-8 weeks since the virus can also affect the spleen causing it to become enlarged. If an enlarged spleen is hit or strained it could rupture causing severe bleeding. Additionally, mono may cause liver inflammation.