What are the causes and symptoms of infectious mononucleosis?
The EBV that causes mononucleosis is related to a group of herpes viruses, including those that cause cold sores, chicken pox, and shingles. Most people are exposed to EBV at some point during their lives. Mononucleosis is most commonly spread by contact with virus-infected saliva through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing drinking glasses or eating utensils. In addition to general weakness and fatigue, symptoms of mononucleosis may include any or all of the following: • Sore throat and/or swollen tonsils • Fever and chills • Nausea and vomiting, or decreased appetite • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits • Headaches or joint pain • Enlarged spleen • Jaundice • Skin rash. Complications that can occur with mononucleosis include a temporarily enlarged spleen or inflamed liver. In rare instances, the spleen may rupture, producing sharp pain on the left side of the abdomen, a symptom that warrants immediate medical attention. Additional symptoms of a ruptured spleen include li
