What are the treatment options for glandular fever?
No treatment is needed if symptoms are mild. Treatments that may help if symptoms are troublesome are listed below. Most people make a complete recovery in a couple of weeks, with perhaps a lingering tiredness lasting another week or so.
- Have lots to drink. It is tempting not to drink very much if swallowing is painful. This may lead to mild dehydration, particularly if you also a fever. Mild dehydration can make headaches and tiredness much worse.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease pain, headache, and fever. It can be given to children as a medicine (such as Calpol, Disprol etc). Paracetamol is also available as dissolvable tablets.
- Antibiotics are occasionally prescribed. Glandular fever is due to a virus, and antibiotics do not kill viruses. However, some people develop a secondary bacterial infection on the inflamed tonsils. Antibiotics may then help.
- Steroids. It is uncommon to need these. Steroid tablets (such as prednisolone) reduce inflammation. If the inflammation in the throat is severe it can cause difficulty with swallowing. A short course of steroids may be prescribed to help reduce the inflammation.
General advice
To prevent spread, avoid kissing and close body contact with other people whilst you are ill. Don't share cups, towels, etc, whilst you are ill. Don't play rough or contact sports for eight weeks. See a doctor if any unusual, severe, or unexplained symptoms develop.
The vast majority of people with glandular fever can expect a full recovery. It is very rare to have it again.
© EMIS and PIP 2006 Updated: June 2006
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shirley, 4 months
this info is very useful,i'm now starting my third week of illness should i stay off work as i am very tired and only have a week and 2 days left(work in school)
Report this commentJenny, 6 months
I think i have gladular fever with high swelling and pain in and around the eyes. I have exams coming up and university, is safe for me to sit them with others in close proximity?
Report this commentCharlene, 7 months
I was just wondering how long glandular fever is contagious for? i have my final exam at college soon but obviously it wouldn't be fair to my class mates to go back when i'm contagious.
Report this commentKim Mooney, about 1 year
I found this very helpful and put my mind at rest that i am treating my son correctly thank-you
Report this commentjade, about 1 year
this information is reali usfaull as u have glanjla feva and makes me no wot to do and look for if things gooo wrong
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Simone, about 1 month
I had it 3 weeks ago and it lasted near enuf to 2 weeks..it came back again yesterday its a horrible virus :( u get soo tierd from it but after loookin at this i no now how to treat it =)
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