[Hydrophobic1212]

I just got diagnosed this week with suspected mono. The doctor is convinced I'll be feeling better by next week but I've NEVER heard of anyone getting over mono that fast. Worst part of it is that I more than likely have a condition called POTS (postural orthosatic tachycardia syndrome where when I change positions, my heart goes crazy) and coughing and all that is making the heart rate spastic.

So, my questions are these:

- How long can I expect the worst of this to last?
- Anyone know the stages of mono?
- How can I help the sore throat? And spleen swelling? Coughing can't burst the spleen, can it?
- How long am I contagious and how will I be contagious?
- Did anyone get moody or depressed with it? Anxious?

If I think of more questions, i will post them.

[Travelinglady]

I have never had it, but I thought it took a long time to get over. How are you doing now?

[SnakeCharmer]

I had mono quite a while back. It ran its course very much like the flu. I was sick for about a week and less sick for another week. And just like the flu, I felt draggy for several more weeks after I was no longer contagious or in bed. So ... a month for the whole thing to run its course. I've known people who were much less sick than that and others who were much more sick. It probably depends on individual stamina, stress levels and whether or not you have anyone to help around the house. For me, it wasn't as bad as the flu.

The Mayo Clinic has a pretty good description of mono, including info about spleen involvement. Spleen rupture is rare. Very rare. If you google mononucleosis + Mayo Clinic it'll take you to the right page.

This is what they say to do for sore throat: Gargle with salt water. Do this several times a day to relieve sore throat. Mix 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces (237 milliliters) of warm water.

Sorry you're having to go through this.