Glandular fever
Overview
Glandular fever is a viral infection that mostly affects teenagers and young adults. It gets better without treatment, but it can last for weeks and make you feel very ill.
Symptoms
Glandular fever is most common in people aged 15 to 24 years old. Symptoms of glandular fever may include: high temperatureswollen glands, which may be in the neck, head, armpits, elbows, or groinsore throata rash, which may be harder to see on black or brown skinheadachetiredness
Causes
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Spread via saliva ('kissing disease'), sharing cups/cutlery, coughs/sneezes.
Treatment
Glandular fever should get better by itself, and you should start to feel better within 2 to 4 weeks. There are some things you can do to help ease the symptoms. rest rest drink plenty of fluids to avoiddehydration– drink small sips frequently if it's painful to swallow drink plenty of fluids to avoiddehydration– drink small sips frequently if it's painful to swallow take painkillers likeparacetamoloribuprofen(do not give aspirin to children under 16 years old) take painkillers likeparacetamoloribuprofen(do not give aspirin to children under 16 years old) do not do strenuous activities like heavy lifting or playing sports do not do strenuous activities like heavy lifting or playing sports This video explains how to treat glandular fever yourself.
Prevention
Hygiene: don't share cups/toothbrushes; wash hands. Contagious for weeks/months.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: high fever 40C+; severe throat pain; breathing difficulty; abdominal pain (spleen). Call 999: severe breathing issues; swallowing difficulty.