Early Symptoms of Epstein-Barr Virus:
Typically, the first symptoms that that a patient has Epstein-Barr Virus is a general feeling of being run down and tired, and a headache. These symptoms are followed soon by a fever and swollen glands in the neck accompanied by a sore throat. These early symptoms are could just as easily suggest the common cold or flu.
The Most Common Symptoms Of Epstein-Barr Virus:
The same early Epstein-Barr Virus symptoms may become worse and last at least two weeks. The swollen lymph nodes may expand from the neck to the armpits and groin. Tonsils may become enlarged. The fever persists and hovers around 102 degrees F. The fatigue and general feeling of not being well (malaise) continues, sometimes to the point of being debilitating. Frequently there is a loss of appetite.
Less Common Symptoms of Epstein-Barr Virus:
A large range of additional Epstein-Barr Virus symptoms have been reported. They include skin rash (especially seen in children), swelling or puffiness around the eyes, photophobia, joint and muscle aches, nausea with or without abdominal pain.
Occasionally, a patient with Epstein-Barr Virus will have no symptoms at all.
Symptoms of Epstein-Barr Virus that Could Indicate a Serious Complication:
In most cases, Epstein-Barr Virus is treated with basic home care. This includes plenty of rest and care focused on relief of symptoms. There is a risk for serious complications. When certain Epstein-Barr Virus Symptoms present themselves, the patient should seek medical care, and sometimes emergency treatment.
If the patient experiences soreness in the left upper abdomen, it could indicate an enlarged spleen. The patient should avoid all contact sports and heavy lifting to avoid rupturing of the spleen. This is a serious medical emergency that requires emergency surgery. Without proper treatment, this condition can lead to death.
A very sore throat is a common Epstein-Barr Virus symptom, but an extremely painful throat, accompanied by puss on the tonsils and a very high fever, can indicate a serious secondary infection - typically strep throat. Strep throat is easily treated with antibiotics, but left untreated it can have serious complications such as Rheumatic Fever
Another complication possible from the sore throat and swollen throat tissues is if the swelling becomes so severe that the passage of either air or fluids is blocked. If the patient has difficulty breathing, or cannot even swallow his own saliva, immediate medical care should be sought.