Glandular Fever – Causes and Symptoms
Several causes are known for this type of fever. Some of these are malaria, syphilis, tuberculosis, and influenza. But, the most common cause is a viral infection known as glandular fever. This type of fever usually affects young children, but can also happen to adults. Symptoms are usually mild, and fever may only last a day or two. However, complications can occur.
Incubation period
Generally, the incubation period for glandular fever is around four to six weeks, although it can last as long as seven weeks. It is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Although there is no vaccine, there are many ways to prevent the disease. These include avoiding contaminated drinkware, sharing cutlery, and avoiding heavy lifting or working in a hot environment. In addition to the usual suspects, a few more unconventional sources of infection include eating poorly prepared meat or fruit, and exposing yourself to contaminated water.
Fortunately, most cases of glandular fever are mild and go away on their own. However, if you do get it, you may have to spend a few days in the hospital to recover. While waiting, you may want to try some of the more mundane treatment options such as rest, cold compresses, and corticosteroids. However, if you’re worried about the risk of spreading it to others, a visit to your local GP is a good idea. They can tell you what to do, how to treat it, and provide some much-needed support and information.
The incubation period for glandular fever may be on the small side, but the symptoms of this infectious disease can be very debilitating. The symptoms include fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes in the spleen. A swollen spleen is a sign of a more serious condition, however, and may require medical attention. It is also possible to pass the virus on to healthy individuals, so it is best to err on the side of caution.
There are many other viral infections that cause the same symptoms, and you should consult your GP if you suspect you might have one. If you do end up with glandular fever, you can try some of the more conservative treatment options, such as rest, cold compresses, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, before going to the hospital. You can even try going back to work when you’re better. It’s not likely that you’ll get a glandular fever again, but if you have it, you might want to consider having it checked out to avoid spreading it to others.
Symptoms
Symptoms of glandular fever can be severe and can take months to heal. The symptoms of glandular fever include fever, chills, fatigue, sore throat, and a general lack of energy. It can also cause inflammation of the brain and meningitis.
If you’re feeling ill, you should see your doctor. They can diagnose glandular fever based on your symptoms and history. A blood test is usually used to confirm the diagnosis. A full blood count can also be used to check for an increase in white blood cells.
The main complication of glandular fever is a swollen spleen. The spleen is an organ that lies under the ribs on the left side of the abdomen. If it is damaged, it can become inflamed and rupture. This is a medical emergency.
A ruptured spleen can lead to a lot of pain. To manage the pain, you may need to take anti-inflammatory medications. A local anesthetic throat spray can also be used. You may also need to take an over-the-counter painkiller. Paracetamol can also help relieve the pain.
A person with glandular fever can still be infectious for many months after the symptoms have gone away. For this reason, it is important to limit contact with other people. You should also avoid contact sports.
If you think you may have a glandular fever, it is important to visit your doctor. They will be able to test for the infection and will also be able to give you treatment. Treatment for glandular fever can include a course of bed rest. Keeping your body hydrated is also very important. You may also need to take medication to keep your fever under control.
You should also avoid drinking alcohol. This can affect your liver and may result in an increase in fatigue. You should avoid contact sports for at least eight weeks. Taking paracetamol and other over-the-counter painkillers can also help relieve the symptoms of glandular fever.
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, you should call 999 for an ambulance. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days.
Diagnosis
Symptoms of glandular fever include fever, enlarged spleen, sore throat, and fatigue. Most people with the virus will recover without any complications. It is important to diagnose glandular fever so that the appropriate treatment can be given.
A swab of the throat is used for diagnosis. In addition, there are other tests that may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
A complete blood count may be done to look for unusual cells. A blood test for EBV antibodies can also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
The liver may also be tested. Approximately 80% of patients with glandular fever have abnormal liver function tests. However, these tests are not always useful in diagnosing the disease.
Hepatitis is a complication of glandular fever and can produce jaundice. Jaundice can last for several months, but it is not permanent. If it is persistent, liver function tests may need to be repeated. If it is severe, the patient may need surgery.
An enlarged spleen may be associated with glandular fever, and it can rupture. The spleen is an organ located near the stomach. It is important to avoid contact sports for eight weeks after a diagnosis of glandular fever. Heavy lifting may damage the spleen.
The main treatment for glandular fever is rest and fluids. However, you may also need medication to control your fever. Your GP can provide advice on treatments. Your pharmacist can also provide advice.
You may also need to take painkillers. These can be bought at the supermarket or pharmacy. You may need to take soluble aspirin or paracetamol to manage the pain.
You may also need to take antibiotics if you have a bacterial throat infection. However, antibiotics have no effect on glandular fever. You may also need to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control your fever.
Some people may also develop a chronic fatigue syndrome that is associated with glandular fever. This can limit your work productivity. If your fatigue persists, see your GP. They will be able to offer you advice and a medical certificate.
Complications
During your recovery from glandular fever, you may experience complications. These can be mild, severe, or life-threatening. These complications are often treated in a hospital setting.
Among the most common complications of glandular fever are a swollen spleen and a ruptured spleen. The spleen is an organ that is located near the stomach. This organ is part of the immune system. As the immune system works to fight the virus, the spleen may swell.
When your spleen becomes enlarged, you may experience mild pain in the upper left abdomen. If the spleen ruptures, it may cause severe internal bleeding. A ruptured spleen occurs in one in every 500 to one in every 1000 cases of glandular fever.
If you have a ruptured spleen, you may have difficulty swallowing. You may also experience sharp abdominal pain. If your abdominal pain is severe, you should seek medical attention immediately. You may also experience pain in your back, legs, or feet.
You may also experience fatigue, which can last for up to six months after the initial infection. The fatigue is more severe if you have a weakened immune system. People with autoimmune disorders or organ transplants are at a higher risk. You may also experience headaches.
In a small number of cases, your immune system will become so weak that it cannot fight off a secondary infection. This may occur in people with an autoimmune disorder, cancer, organ transplant, or people who are undergoing high-dose chemotherapy. You may also be exposed to other infections, such as meningitis or pneumonia.
If you have glandular fever, it is important to get plenty of rest and eat well. You can also take multivitamins to give your body the nutrients it needs.
If you think you have glandular fever, you should get a blood test to confirm the diagnosis. The tests can also help rule out other illnesses. You may also be referred to a hospital for further treatment if your immune system becomes weakened.
A full recovery from glandular fever is possible. You may be able to go back to work and other activities once you feel better. However, you should avoid vigorous physical activity until your body heals.
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