Mononucleosis

Three months ago I was diagnosed with mono, after having every test under the sun.  My symptoms were very typical, blisters in throat, swollen glands in back of head, headache.  It took so long to diagnose me because the first two mono tests were negative.  The third was positive. I was sick for a good two months.  I am 33 years old, I didn't think you got mono at this age.  Anyway I have felt great all summer, about 3 months. Two weeks ago I started exercising again.  I took off all summer because of the mono.  Well,  3 days ago my throat started hurting.  I have the same type of blisters again,  my glands in the back of my head are swollen, bad headache.  I feel the exact same as I did with mono.  I didn't think you could get it twice.  Could I still not be over it after 4months?  Could it be something more serious?  I am very worried because I did alot of reading before they finally told my it was mono, and I worry it is a problem with my immune system.  Please help I am so tired of going to the doctor.  Thank you,  Beth Mattingly

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You can obtain mono at any age, although teenagers and adolescents develop this disease at a high frequency.  Typically, the symptoms last several weeks, but in some can last months.  It would vary depending on the patient.  

For further testing to confirm the diagnosis you may want to obtain tests for antibodies specific to the Epstein-Barr virus.  

Treatment is mainly supportive, but in your case, the symptoms are persisting.  There are controversial data regarding treatment with steroids or antiviral medications (i.e. Acyclovir), that you may want to discuss with your personal physician, or be referred to an infectious disease specialist.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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