Mononucleosis Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Home care with plenty of rest and fluids is essential for someone with mono.

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) for fever and pain control.
  
  
• Throat lozenges or gargling with warm saltwater may soothe a sore throat.
  
  
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
  
  
• Rest in bed and limit activity according to the degree of the illness.
  
  
• Avoid strenuous exercise and contact sports until the doctor allows resumption of activities. The spleen may be enlarged, and vigorous activity may cause it to rupture. Most doctors believe that a person with mono should postpone strenuous activities for at least one month after the onset of symptoms or until the spleen has returned to its normal size.