Mononucleosis

Symptoms of Mononucleosis

A person who is infected with mononucleosis will usually show symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes or tonsils, extreme weakness and tiredness, headache, skin rash, night sweats, and loss of appetite. The symptoms are evident after four to six weeks of coming into contact with the virus. In some cases, the spleen may enlarge and may even rupture, which requires immediate medical attention. Among children in the age group of 4-15 years old, the disease typically manifests as a common respiratory infection, which is mild. On the contrary, older adults show more severe symptoms that may last for a longer duration.

Natural Cures

Mononucleosis can be a long-term and disabling illness. Because mononucleosis is caused by a virus, there is no specific drug treatment available, so the best cures are to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter painkillers. Natural remedies can help to alleviate some of the painful symptoms of this disease and even encourage your body to begin fighting the infection. Here are a few remedies that can be used to treat mononucleosis:

Herbal cures

Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body's systems. Here are a few suggestions:

	Prepare herbal teas by using any of these herbs: green tea, milk thistle, elderberry, and cat’s claw. The tea should be prepared by adding one teaspoon of dried herb to one cup of boiling water and letting it steep for a few minutes. Such herbal teas may be consumed two to four times each day.
	Cat’s claw has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing sore throat and fever. You may also try boiling the bark of this herb in lemon juice and drinking this mixture two to three times each day.
	Marshmallow root and licorice root are considered to work wonders for curing the sore throat caused by mono. Steep it in boiling water for approximately ten minutes and drink this soothing tea a couple of times each day.
	Astralagus can also help the body to recover faster and increase the immune power of the body to fight the mono infection. Boil astralagus root in water for ten minutes or take one capsule of this herb once each day.

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamins A and C are believed to boost the immune system of the body and help ward off cold and sore throat, thereby speeding the recovery process. Vitamin A supplements will help your body to create cells of optimum quality and vitamin C will encourage your body to produce more antibodies to resist the mono virus. Zinc is an important immune system-regulating mineral. Recommended dosage includes taking zinc lozenges every two hours along with vitamin C with bioflavonoids, vitamin A, and beta-carotene supplements.

Dealing with Mononucleosis Here are a few suggestions that can help patients who are suffering from mononucleosis. Get plenty of rest and sleep. Consume a large amount of water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices, and herbal teas to prevent dehydration and alleviate sore throat as well as fever. Gargle with a saline solution made of warm water and one half of a tablespoon of salt to feel relief from sore throat. Avoid contact with healthy individuals, especially young children because they have low immunity. Be cautious when returning to your usual routine after a case of mono. Avoid engaging in contact sports or vigorous activities, especially if you have an enlarged spleen.

Previous

1

2

Next