Mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis, also known as Pfeiffer’s glandular fever or Pfeiffer’s disease, is a disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.
As the virus can be transmitted via saliva, the disease is also commonly known as kissing disease.

When the infection breaks out, it causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat and swelling of the lymph nodes.

In order to recover as quickly as possible, bed rest, sufficient fluid intake and the intake of antipyretic medication are recommended for Pfeiffer’s disease.

If the acute infection is not completely cured, the disease can become chronic, which leads to permanent exhaustion and fatigue. This can severely restrict the quality of life.

However, even if the infection is successfully overcome, the virus remains in the body for life and can be reactivated in the event of immunodeficiency.
For example, phases of increased stress and chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a new outbreak, which then requires renewed attention.

The symptoms of mononucleosis can vary slightly from person to person.

The classic symptoms are fatigue, fever, sore throat and enlarged lymph nodes.
However, greyish tonsils, rashes and enlargement of the liver and spleen are also typical.

Diagnosis is based on the symptoms, physical examination and special blood tests that can detect antibodies against EBV. It is not always easy to distinguish it from classic flu. It may therefore be helpful to have the infection clarified by your GP.

Yes, mononucleosis is a disease caused by a transmissible virus.

The main route of transmission is through saliva. Consequently, the virus is transmitted when kissing or sharing cutlery and toothbrushes.
In rare cases, transmission also occurs when coughing or sneezing.

The incubation period, in other words, the time from the initial infection to the appearance of the first symptoms, is usually between four and seven weeks.

This is followed by the acute symptomatic phase, during which those affected are highly contagious. It usually lasts two to four weeks.

However, even after the infection has subsided, people can still be contagious for several months.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for mononucleosis. In most cases, the symptoms subside on their own over time. Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult a doctor in order to obtain the correct diagnosis and treatment and to rule out other possible illnesses.

Bed rest, sufficient fluid intake and a healthy diet are recommended for mononucleosis. In addition, severe fever or nausea can be treated symptomatically by administering medication.

It is important to avoid physical exertion, as this can lead to an enlargement of the spleen, which in turn can lead to a rupture of the spleen.

From a naturopathic point of view, it is important to focus on strengthening the immune system. This includes, above all, a change in diet to a healthy diet, intestinal cleanse and various detoxification methods, from chelation therapy to blood purification, such as apheresis.

One example of apheresis is Inuspheresis. This can remove not only toxic metals but also other harmful substances such as plastic particles from the body.

Other customised, integrative treatments such as hyperthermia, ozone therapy or infusion therapy can also provide effective support.

In addition, some home remedies can help the body to fight the infection as quickly as possible or alleviate symptoms.

Warm throat compresses, tea with honey and cold food can soothe a sore throat. A healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables can be beneficial for the immune system.

In most cases, the infection is successfully overcome and no long-term damage remains.

However, in individual cases, long-lasting exhaustion and fatigue, a so-called ‘chronic fatigue syndrome’, liver function restrictions or autoimmune problems may occur.

If you still suffer from symptoms after the acute infection has subsided, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

To date, the links between mononucleosis, the Epstein-Barr virus and Long Covid problems are poorly understood and the subject of current research.

It is possible that past infections with the Epstein-Barr virus are a risk factor for the development of Long Covid and should be taken into account accordingly.

In the following, we list the most important questions and answers that circulate on the subject of mononucleosis.

If you have any further questions, you should not hesitate to consult your doctor.

The information listed contains relevant topics and serves to improve understanding.