Glandular Fever Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Understanding

Glandular fever is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV commonly affects children. Once infected, the child develops lifelong immunity against the disease.

This infection is transmitted through saliva or saliva of sufferers that contain the virus. Patients with glandular fever are patients aged 15-24 years. Both boys and girls are at the same risk.

Reason

Glandular fever is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This virus belongs to the herpes family (which also includes the simplex virus and cytomegalovirus).

Infection with EBV is common during childhood and causes mild symptoms. EBV attacks two types of cells in the body, namely salivary gland cells and white blood cells known as B lymphocytes. B lymphocyte infection will cause lymph node enlargement.

Glandular fever can be transmitted through direct contact with patient fluids. Usually, the virus can be transmitted through fluids when sufferers sneeze or kiss.

Diagnosis

Determination of the diagnosis of glandular fever can be done through medical interviews and physical examinations. Patients will complain of fever and enlarged glands.

Other symptoms that can occur are those common to viral infections – such as muscle aches, sore throat or sweating. Blood tests may be performed to exclude cytomegalovirus, rubella, mumps, and toxoplasmosis infections.

Symptom

Symptoms of glandular fever that are usually complained of are:

1. Fever
2. Sore throat
3. Glandular swelling
4. Weak
5. Muscle aches
6. Sweating
7. Loss of appetite
8. There is a skin rash

Treatment

Treatment of glandular fever is supportive. Sufferers are advised to rest, drink lots of water, and can be given fever-reducing drugs. If the patient gets complications in the form of infection, for example, a lung infection, then antibiotics can be given.

Prevention

Glandular fever can spread easily. Therefore, personal hygiene is very necessary. Wash your hands properly and washcloths or bed sheets that have been stained with infectious fluids. Don’t kiss people with glandular fever. Also, don’t share food with someone with glandular fever.