What is the difference between tonsillitis and mono

This is often the case when it comes to strep throat and mononucleosis , or mono for short. While these two conditions do have several similarities, they also have a few key differences that can help determine which one an individual is infected with. It is important to know which one you have so that you can recover faster by taking the proper steps. These two conditions differ in how they come about. Strep throat differs in that it is caused by infection from a bacteria called Streptococcus.

This bacteria infects the throat and tonsils, and it can be picked up from others or items that an infected person has touched.

Both of these conditions can cause a sore throat, but there are distinct differences. A sore throat from strep throat will typically lead to enlarged tonsils, and there can also be red and white patches in the throat. Mono will often make an individual feel fatigued, which is typically not a symptom of strep throat. Another possible symptom of mono is an enlarged or swollen spleen. If you feel pain or pressure in your upper left abdomen, then you should contact your doctor immediately.

Being that mono is a virus, often the best course of action is to eat well, keep drinking fluids, and get plenty of rest to help the virus pass. Strep throat on the other hand will typically require antibiotics to be treated. Swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fatigue and headache are some of the symptoms of mononucleosis, which is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is generally self-limiting and most patients can recover in 4 to 6 weeks without medicines.

This picture shows large, atypical lymphocytes white blood cells. These cells are seen in viral infections, most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus infectious mononucleosis , cytomegalovirus diseases, and occasionally infectious hepatitis.

This is an example of a type I Downy cell. Gianotti-Crosti disease is also called acrodermatitis of childhood. These red, elevated lesions do not contain pus and can occur on the limbs, buttocks, face, and neck. Infectious mononucleosis causes a sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes, and fatigue.

The throat may appear red and the tonsils covered with a whitish material. Mononucleosis and severe streptococcal tonsillitis appear quite similar. Unless there are other findings to suggest mononucleosis, a throat culture and blood studies may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. In teenagers and young adults, there is frequently a sore throat and red tonsils with whitish spots exudate , as seen in this picture.

Enlarged lymph nodes and fatigue are also common. Antigens are large molecules usually proteins on the surface of cells, viruses, fungi, bacteria, and some non-living substances such as toxins, chemicals, drugs, and foreign particles. The immune system recognizes antigens and produces antibodies that destroy substances containing antigens. Mono is often spread by saliva and close contact. It is known as "the kissing disease. Rarely, it is caused by other viruses, such as cytomegalovirus CMV.

You can also use home remedies to manage the symptoms of inflamed tonsils and sore throat. With home remedies and lots of rest, your sore throat should clear up in a few days. See your doctor if your symptoms are extreme or persist for a long time. When tonsils become infected, the condition is called tonsillitis. Learn more about tonsillitis causes, diagnosis, and treatment. Have a sore throat but only on one side?

Read about eight possible causes and how to treat them. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat. We explain the common signs, diagnostic tests, treatment…. Cysts on your tonsils are a rare occurrence. Other conditions can easily be mistaken for a tonsil cyst, such as tonsillitis, strep throat, or…. Swollen tonsils, also called tonsillitis, can be caused by a number of things. Most commonly, tonsils swell due to a bacterial or viral infection.

Tonsillitis is more commonly seen in children, but it can occur in adults, too. We explain the symptoms, treatment options, and when to seek help for…. Tonsillitis is contagious, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk for catching or spreading this infection.

Tonsil stones, which are caused by calcium deposits in your tonsils, sometimes dislodge by themselves.

Tonsillar hypertrophy is another term for enlarged tonsils. Treatment: Like the common cold, mono is a viral infection with no cure. You can follow these self-care measures to feel better. Gargle: To reduce throat pain, gargle with one teaspoon of salt or baking soda dissolved in a glass of very warm water. You can purchase non-prescription medications like Chloraseptic gargle or lozenges, or your clinician may write a prescription for gargles that reduce throat pain and make swallowing easier.

Take medication: For fever, sore throat, head and body aches, ibuprofen or naproxen Aleve are available without prescription. Follow directions on packaging. Avoid acetaminophen Tylenol because of possible liver inflammation that can be associated with mono. In addition, you need to take special care of yourself during recovery. Refrain from vigorous activities: Because mono can affect the entire lymph system, including the spleen located under your left lower rib cage , avoid vigorous activities such as football, soccer or running.

Do not play contact sports until at least weeks after diagnosis or onset of symptoms. You can do mild exercises such as walking or swimming, as long as the activity doesn't increase fatigue. Rest at least eight hours per night: Attend classes if you feel able, but plan to rest often. Eat nutritious foods: To strengthen your immune system and help reduce symptoms, eat antioxidant rich foods like leafy vegetables, peppers, and blueberries, avoid refined foods like sugar and white breads, and blend your foods or eat them with a liquid to soothe a sore throat.