Main methods of treatment of infectious mononucleosis in children
Mononucleosis - what kind of disease is it? This is an acute infectious disease, the causative agent of which is most often the Epstein-Barr virus, which belongs to the group of herpesviruses. Infectious mononucleosis occurs with the classic triad: high temperature, sore throat (angina), enlarged lymph nodes. The virus practically does not spread by airborne droplets, but is transmitted through saliva: toys, shared dishes, kisses.
Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis in children
The incubation period of mononucleosis lasts from one to four to six weeks, that is, symptoms can appear a month after contact with the virus carrier. In the first days of the disease, the child is lethargic, has a poor appetite, subfibrillation. This condition can be observed for up to two weeks. Then the well-being worsens: the temperature rises, the lymph nodes increase, and a sore throat appears.
Main symptoms of infectious mononucleosis in children:
- headache;
- general malaise;
- fatigue;
- sharp pain in the throat;
- increase and redness of palatine tonsils;
- increase and tenderness of lymph nodes in the neck area (lymphadenopathy);
- temperature increase;
- enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly);
- enlargement of the liver;
- on the 3-5th day of the disease, a rash may appear.
Since similar symptoms are observed in other diseases (angina, diphtheria, adenovirus infection, rubella), it is necessary to immediately consult a pediatrician. Read about how to distinguish infectious mononucleosis from tonsillitis and SARS on our website https://dobrobut.com/
If mononucleosis is suspected, the doctor prescribes:
- a detailed blood test, which may show atypical lymphocytosis;
- heterophilic antibody test (may be negative if performed in the first days of insemination);
- smear from the throat (culture is necessary for differential diagnosis).
How long to treat mononucleosis
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for infectious mononucleosis. Since the causative agent is a virus, antibiotics are ineffective, and they are prescribed only when a secondary bacterial infection occurs.
Treatment of infectious mononucleosis in children consists of strict bed rest and supportive therapy. NSAIDs are prescribed to relieve pain/inflammation and reduce temperature. Antiviral drugs (Anaferon, Viferon), vitamins are indicated. If the child knows how to gargle, then antiseptic solutions are prescribed. It is advisable to give the child more fluids to prevent dehydration. Hormonal therapy is carried out only in severe cases, when it comes to severe intoxication and a significant increase in tonsils.
It is impossible to give an unambiguous answer to the question of how long to treat mononucleosis. The younger the child, the easier the course of the disease and the faster the recovery. The acute period with high temperature lasts from one to four weeks, the rehabilitation period is much longer. Some young patients may experience fatigue for several more months. After recovery, dispensary observation is necessary for six months.
Children after mononucleosis should avoid contact sports and intense physical activity (due to the risk of rupture of the spleen).
Complications of infectious mononucleosis
Complications are rare, but they are quite serious. Meningitis, otitis, encephalitis, pneumonia, rupture of the spleen may develop. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor on time. Timely and adequate therapy is a guarantee of full recovery.
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