Glandular Fever Treatment

Glandular fever, or infectious mononucleosis, is a viral infection, normally caused by the highly common Epstein-barr virus, that results in a fever and swelling of the glands – hence the name. It also causes a sore throat and fatigue. Fatigue is one of the most commonly experienced and prominent of the symptoms and this can last for three months or more in unfortunate cases leading to extended periods of time off work.

The Epstein-barr virus is one of the most common of all viruses and is thought to be present in around 90% of adults, having infected them at childhood and then lain dormant in the cells of the throat and blood. As with many viruses, the symptoms are more severe when they occur later in life, and in teenagers it will often present itself as glandular fever. Glandular fever then is most common between the ages of 15 and 25, and at this point is contagious through kissing or breathing in air-born particles.

Unfortunately there is no 'cure' for glandular fever, so treatment revolves around management. Time will have to be taken off of school, college or work for at least a month after the symptoms first emerge. During this time it is important to get a lot of rest and relaxation and to avoid stress. It is also highly important to drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration and fight the fever. Pain killers and corticosteroids can be used to treat the painful symptoms, but antibiotics will prove ineffectual. In some cases the sufferer may also break out in a rash, usually across their back, in which case creams can be used to alleviate soreness. Salt water can sometimes alleviate a sore throat, as can soft foods such as ice cream or yogurt which will sooth the throat. To help overcome the fatigue you could also try using stimulants and high energy foods – carb sources such as bananas can help, and vitamin B6 can further help your body to use those carbs to their fullest and to extract the maximum amount of energy from them as possible.

Following the initial month of the symptoms you will then need to slowly return to regular activity. This will require a gradual build up; exercise can greatly help our energy levels and a range of other factors, but those suffering from glandular fever will simply lack the energy levels to launch straight into a full blown workout regime. Simply start moving around more and going for walks, before later participating in some gentle exercise. Consult your doctor regarding the best types of exercise that will not exacerbate your condition.