Glandular Fever: Symptoms, Causes and When to See a Doctor
Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is a viral illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It mostly affects teenagers and young adults, but anyone can catch it. The infection spreads through saliva and is sometimes called the “kissing disease.”
While glandular fever often gets better on its own, symptoms like fatigue, swollen glands, and sore throat can linger — and in some cases, complications may arise. Early diagnosis can help you manage symptoms more effectively and avoid serious issues.
Common Symptoms of Glandular Fever
Knowing what to look for is key. The most common glandular fever symptoms include:
- Severe sore throat — often worse than a typical cold
- Swollen lymph nodes — especially in the neck or armpits
- Persistent fatigue or exhaustion
- Fever or chills
- Headache and muscle aches
- Enlarged tonsils — sometimes with white spots or coating
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rash (in some cases)
- Enlarged spleen or liver (less common but important)
Symptoms usually last 2 to 3 weeks, but some people experience post-viral fatigue for several more weeks.
When to See a Private GP
Most cases of glandular fever improve without treatment, but you should seek medical advice if:
- Your sore throat persists longer than 7 days
- You have difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Your lymph nodes continue to enlarge or become painful
- You have ongoing fatigue that affects your daily life
- You’re unsure whether your symptoms are glandular fever or something else (e.g. strep throat, COVID-19)
Red Flag Symptoms: Seek Urgent Care
Call a doctor immediately or visit A&E if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain — especially on the left (may indicate splenic rupture)
- Trouble breathing or severe difficulty swallowing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Sensitivity to light, neck stiffness, or confusion (possible complications like meningitis)
Glandular Fever Treatment
There is no antiviral cure for EBV. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and recovery:
- Rest as much as possible
- Drink fluids to stay hydrated
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever
- Avoid intense physical activity — especially contact sports, as the spleen may be enlarged
Antibiotics are not helpful unless there’s a bacterial infection alongside the virus.
Your GP may carry out a monospot blood test or full blood count to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of your symptoms.
How to Prevent Glandular Fever
EBV spreads through saliva, so the best prevention methods are simple but effective:
- Avoid kissing or sharing drinks with someone who’s unwell
- Don’t share utensils, toothbrushes, or water bottles
- Wash your hands regularly
- Stay at home if you’re feeling unwell to avoid passing the virus on
There is no vaccine for glandular fever, so hygiene is your best defence.
Speak to a Private GP Today
At OneMedicine, we offer fast, discreet diagnosis and personalised treatment plans for glandular fever and other viral illnesses. If you’re concerned about long-lasting fatigue, swollen glands, or a persistent sore throat, we can help.
✔ Same-day appointments
✔ Glandular fever testing and diagnosis
✔ Expert aftercare and recovery advice
