Glandular fever is a self-limiting sickness which is caused by Epstein-Barr virus. It is also known as infectious mononucleosis. Following a recovery from this illness, the patient is usually immune to it for a lifetime due to the antibodies produced by the immune system during recovery. So, it is rare to contract the fever after going through the first episode.
Young adults and teenagers are common customers of glandular fever. Symptoms vary from a usual headache to sore throat and fever to swollen glands in the armpits or on the neck. It takes 4-8 weeks to incubate and is mainly spread by close contact – kissing, coughing, sneezing, and sharing things (cups, glasses, etc).
Do it Yourself
- Make yourself comfortable and do not exert yourself too much. Take plenty of rest
- If you have a painful throat, you could take warm drinks. Dehydration could be a possibility when suffering from the fever; drink enough fruit juices and water to avoid it
- The first few weeks of the illness could make you weak and tired. It is recommended that you stay in bed and relax
- If you have a sore or itchy throat, try gargling with warm water with half a spoon of salt dissolved in it. This will help to make a soothing gargle
- Take adequate steps to reduce stress during recovery. You could try deep breathing, relaxation, meditation, etc.
- Having healthy foods will help to trigger your immune system and aid to recover faster
- For at least 6-8 weeks after recovery or while you are not well, avoid getting involved in contact sports and other exhaustive or taxing activities
- Consuming alcohol should strictly be avoided as it will worsen the case of your already affected liver due to the illness
- Until your appetite and strength returns to the normal condition, you are advised to take leave from your office or school
Natural Curatives
Infection could be the main cause of glandular fever. Fresh fruits are healthy sources which provide different vitamins in a rich measure to fight against infection. Linseed, sunflower seeds, dark green and leafy vegetables, lean meat, walnuts, wheatgerm, oily fishes such as pilchards, salmon, sardines, etc., are primary sources that supply certain nutrients eaten as a part of well-balanced diet.
Medicinal Remedies
Gargles and throat sprays are not recommended for children of 12 years and under. However, for adults, there are certain brands which are highly recommended:
- Painkillers: Difflam Sore Throat Rinse and Spray, Dequacaine, Vicks Ultra Chloraseptic
- Antiseptic Mouthwashes: Corsodyl mouthwash, Colgate Chlorohex 1200
- Breath Fresheners: RetarDex Oral Spray, Coolmint Listerine PocketPaks
Sprays and gargles are also used as painkillers. Some of them help to relieve sore throat while others numb the throat temporarily. They could also be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Medical Advice
After following symptoms like chest pain or abdominal ache, difficulty swallowing or breathing, stiff neck, severe headache, etc., please arrange to see your local doctor to check for further complications and diagnosis.
