Mononucleosis Diagnosis & Treatment. Mono Specialist in Queens, NY

Medex Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Forest Hills brings together board-certified primary-care physicians, on-site labs and same-day appointments under one roof. That means you can be examined, tested and counseled about mononucleosis (“mono”) in a single Queens visit — without the long waits of an ER or the commute to Manhattan. Schedule an appointment with our Mono Specialist today! Our office is conveniently located at 111-29 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills, NY 11375; to book, call (718) 275-8900.

What Is Mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis is a viral illness—most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)—that spreads through saliva. It’s nicknamed “the kissing disease,” but sharing drinks, utensils or lip balm can also pass the virus. Teens and young adults are hit hardest, yet anyone can catch it.

Common Symptoms

Early SignsCan Persist for Weeks
Sore throat that doesn’t improve with antibioticsFatigue
Fever & chillsSwollen lymph nodes (neck, armpits)
Headache or body achesEnlarged spleen or tender upper-left abdomen
Puffy tonsils ± white patchesMild rash

Local tip: Because mono symptoms mirror strep throat and COVID-19, Queens residents often visit our urgent-care walk-in hours for a rapid evaluation.

How We Diagnose Mono – Medex Medical Center in Queens

  1. Detailed exam – Your Medex physician checks tonsils, palpates lymph nodes, liver and spleen.
  2. On-site bloodwork
    • Monospot (heterophile antibody) test – Detects EBV antibodies.
    • CBC with differential – Looks for elevated or atypical white blood cells.
  3. Rule-out testing – A rapid strep screen or throat culture confirms whether bacteria, not EBV, is causing your sore throat.

Mono vs. Strep Throat: Strep is bacterial and clears with antibiotics; mono is viral and requires rest. Accurate testing prevents unnecessary antibiotics and speeds proper care.

Treatment & Home-Care Plan

There’s no antiviral “cure,” but our Queens mono specialists craft a recovery plan focused on:

  • Rest & hydration – Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep and ≥2 litres of fluids daily.
  • Pain / fever relief – Acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed.
  • Steroid prescription – Only if severely swollen tonsils hinder breathing.
  • Activity guidance – No contact sports or heavy lifting for at least 3–4 weeks to protect an enlarged spleen.
  • Follow-up call or visit – We’ll monitor your energy level and spleen size.

Possible Complications (Rare but Serious)

ComplicationRed-Flag Symptom
Ruptured spleenSudden, sharp pain under left ribs—seek ER care immediately
Severe liver inflammation (hepatitis)Yellow skin/eyes (jaundice)
Airway blockage from huge tonsilsDifficulty breathing or swallowing
Neurologic issues (meningitis, Guillain-Barré)Severe headache, neck stiffness, weakness

If you notice any of these, phone Medex right away or dial 911.

Prevention Tips for Queens Families

  • Avoid sharing drinks and utensils during the first month of illness.
  • Replace toothbrushes after the fever breaks.
  • Wash hands frequently — especially in multigenerational homes.
  • There’s currently no vaccine for EBV/mono, so basic hygiene is key.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get mono?
Mostly through saliva exchange — kissing, shared cups, or sneezing close by.

How long is mono contagious?
You’re most contagious while feverish but can shed virus in saliva for 2–3 months.

How long does mono last?
Fever and sore throat fade in 1–2 weeks; fatigue may linger 4–6 weeks.

Can mono come back?
EBV stays dormant for life, yet true “second bouts” are rare; other illnesses usually cause the relapse-like symptoms.

What are the long-term effects?
Most people recover fully; chronic fatigue or enlarged spleen beyond two months is uncommon and should be evaluated.

Ready to Feel Better? Schedule Your Appointment with Mono Specialist Today

Same-day and next-day appointments are available at Medex Diagnostic & Treatment Center, 111-29 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills, NY 11375. Call (718) 275-8900 or request an appointment online to be seen by a mono specialist in Queens. Early diagnosis means faster relief — let our experienced team help you get back to school, work and life.

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