Mono Symptoms in Kids
Teenagers and young adults most often experience an infectious mononucleosis, which is generally known as mono or kissing disease. Mono symptoms in kids are less likely.
However, mono symptoms in kids are possible.
This could be due to a number of reasons, to include usage of a sibling’s cup or eating utensil’s, playing with another child’s toys, or a smooch from an affectionate relative who happens to have the virus.
What is Mono?
Mononucleosis, or mono, is a viral infection that manifests flu-like symptoms, usually self-limiting and goes away on its own after a few weeks.
Mono symptoms are usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is a common virus that a number of kids are exposed to.
Mono symptoms in kids and infants manifest very mild symptoms or none at all. Mono is spread through kissing, sneezing, coughing, or any contact with someone’s saliva who has been infected with the virus.
It can also be spread through other kinds of direct contacts, like sharing of cups and utensils and sharing a drinking straw.
How Does the Doctor Diagnose and Treat Mono?
If the doctor knows that a kid manifesting mono symptoms has been exposed to the virus, he may not test the child for it. A lot of viral illnesses are more likely to cause the symptoms.
Include the fact that the blood test used to diagnose mono quickly is not as accurate for young children.
Treatment measures include the usual treatments for colds such as enough rest, plenty of water and fever-reducing medicines. Antibiotics are not the option for treatment because viruses do not respond to antibiotics.
Mono Symptoms in Kids
Mono symptoms are often mistaken as flu or strep throat. If a child has a fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, unexplained constant fatigue, and generalized body weakness, it is best to consult the pediatrician.
Mono symptoms in lids may include any of the following:
- Severe headache
- Sore muscles
- Abdominal pain
- Swollen spleen
- Swollen liver
- Skin rashes
Mono symptoms in kids may have different combinations. Most symptoms may be gone in a matter of two to four weeks. However, the fatigue and body weakness may last for months.
Complications as a Result of Mono
Most kids who got mono recover completely without any complications or problem. However, in rare cases, be ready for complications to occur.
A complication of mono symptoms in kids may include:
- Liver or spleen problems
- Anemia
- Difficulty in breathing
- Meningitis
- And cardiac inflammation
Is It Possible To Prevent Mono In Kids?
The best way to prevent mono symptoms in kids is to avoid other individuals who have it.
This is easier said than done, because there are a lot of cases that are contagious but without symptoms. If a child has a fever, it is best to keep him home from playgrounds and daycare to avoid spreading the virus.
Segregate each own utensil so as not to share with other kids. Remember, there is no vaccine for Epstein-Barr virus, the kids can be protected by making sure that they avoid close contacts with other kids who have it.
Handwashing is still the best prevention. Teach kids as well not to share drinks and eating utensils with others.
Mono symptoms in kids are rarely dangerous. However, the most common complication for mono symptoms in kids is a ruptured spleen, which is considered a medical emergency. It is best to protect the child from contact sports to avoid possible rupture.
