A rarer symptom is jaundice , which indicates a problem with liver function. A physical examination and a blood test will confirm the disease. White blood cells have nuclei, unlike red blood cells, which lack them entirely. Since the job of white blood cells is to fight disease, a large number of them suggests that the immune system is hard at work. Treatment options Doctors recommend avoiding strenuous exercise to prevent damage to the spleen if it has become enlarged with the infection.
Home care includes relief of symptoms such as gargling with salt water to soothe a sore throat.
Fluids to prevent dehydration and a nutritious diet are also important. However, children and teenagers should not take aspirin because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, a potentially harmful condition of the nervous system and liver . Stages and progress Symptoms of mononucleosis may appear four to six weeks after exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus and progress may vary with the person. The greatest danger of going without treatment is a ruptured spleen . Prevention Avoid close contact with a person who has mononucleosis.