Mononucleosis, or mono, is a common and contagious viral infection. While it mostly affects teenagers and young adults, anyone can get the virus. Understanding the nature of mononucleosis and what to expect when getting an urgent care mono test helps patients with symptom management and recovery.
Let’s look at the symptoms of mono, available treatment options, and how you can prepare for a mono test at an urgent care center.
What Exactly Is Mono?
Mononucleosis – often referred to as “mono,” – is a viral illness usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). However, there are other viruses which can produce symptoms of mono.
Mononucleosis has been nicknamed the “kissing disease.” This is because the virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva or other body fluids.
Mono can affect people of all ages from children to adults in their senior years. However, teens and young adults seem most prone to getting it.
What Are the Symptoms of Mono?
Mono can mimic other acute health conditions. That is why patients should be knowledgeable about their symptoms and ways to receive the right diagnosis and treatment.
Common symptoms of mononucleosis include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever
- Sore throat and swollen tonsils
- Lymph nodes swelling at the sides of the neck and under the arms
- Headache
- Skin rash
- A swollen spleen
- Poor appetite
These symptoms can last two to four weeks and even longer. In some cases, the fatigue can persist even longer.
Can You Receive Care for Mono at an Urgent Care Clinic?
Yes, you can be diagnosed, tested, and treated for mononucleosis at an urgent care center. Cornerstone Urgent Care Center in Rochester, NY, offers comprehensive care for those experiencing symptoms of mono. We provide fast, reliable treatment for a variety of non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses, including mono, the flu, pneumonia, fractures, lacerations, sprains, and more.
The providers will review your medical history and discuss the symptoms you have been experiencing. You may undergo a brief physical examination to assess your throat, lymph nodes, and spleen.
Most likely, you will have a Monospot test. This lab test involves taking a small blood sample via a quick finger stick. As needed, your provider may draw a blood sample for a CBC (complete blood count) to check for any secondary infections.
How Can I Prepare for a Mono Test?
Preparing for an urgent care mono test is really straightforward. However, here are a few things you can do to make sure the test goes well.
Know Your Symptoms
Before visiting an urgent care center, take note of all your symptoms. It may help you to write them down.
This will help your healthcare provider assess your condition accurately. Be specific about when your symptoms started.
Hydrate Well
Drink plenty of fluids before your visit. Staying hydrated makes the simple throat examination more comfortable.
Rest
If you are feeling fatigued, try to rest up a bit before heading to the urgent care.
Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is required for the Monospot test.
How Is Mono Treated?
Because mono is caused by a virus, it is not treated with antibiotics. However, some patients develop secondary infections, such as strep throat and mono. In these cases, the provider may prescribe antibiotics to treat the secondary infections.
Treatment for Mono mainly focuses on relieving symptoms with
- Rest
- Hydration
- Pain and fever relief with over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Avoiding physical activity as Mono can cause spleen enlargement
Urgent Care Mono Test in Rochester, NY
At Cornerstone Urgent Care Center, we understand how debilitating mono can be. Our facility offers onsite diagnostic testing and state-of-the-art lab processing. So, you are assured of quick and accurate mono test results. Additionally, we provide digital X-ray imaging, EKGs, and more.
One of our caring providers will see and treat you within one hour of walking through our doors. No appointment is necessary for treatment, occupational health services, school examination, or other primary care needs.
For your convenience, we are open 7 days a week, even on holidays. Simply walk in or use our convenient online check-in to get started. At Corner Stone Urgent Care Center, we prioritize your health and convenience. If you have questions about our services, call our urgent care clinic at (585) 207-0088.
We look forward to serving you!
