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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Mononucleosis and Strep Throat?

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Mononucleosis and strep throat are two distinct conditions that can cause a sore throat, but they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Here are the main differences between the two:

Causes:

  • Mononucleosis is caused by a viral infection, specifically the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
  • Strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus.

Symptoms: Both conditions can cause a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. However, there are some differences in symptoms:

  • Mononucleosis often makes an individual feel fatigued, which is typically not a symptom of strep throat.
  • Strep throat usually leads to enlarged tonsils and can also cause red and white patches in the throat.
  • Mononucleosis may cause an enlarged or swollen spleen, which is not a symptom of strep throat.

Treatment and Recovery:

  • Mononucleosis, being a viral infection, does not respond to antibiotics. Treatment is directed at relieving symptoms, which may persist for one to two months.
  • Strep throat, being a bacterial infection, can be treated with antibiotics. People with strep throat usually feel better after a few days of treatment.

It is essential to determine which condition you have so that you can take the proper steps to recover and avoid complications. If you suspect you have either mononucleosis or strep throat, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Mononucleosis and Strep Throat?
  • Comparative Table: Mononucleosis vs Strep Throat

    • Comparative Table: Mononucleosis vs Strep Throat

    Here is a table comparing the differences between mononucleosis (mono) and strep throat:

    Feature Mononucleosis Strep Throat
    Cause Virus (Epstein-Barr) Bacteria (Group A Streptococcus)
    Symptoms Fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fever, loss of appetite, malaise, and headache Sore throat, red and white patches in the throat, enlarged tonsils, fever, and headache
    Treatment Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers Antibiotics (penicillin or amoxicillin)
    Contagiousness Highly contagious through saliva (kissing, sharing drinks) Highly contagious through respiratory droplets and contact with infected surfaces
    Prevention Avoid sharing personal items (e.g., drinks), maintain good hygiene Practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with infected individuals
    Recovery Time 2-4 weeks 3-7 days (with antibiotics)

    While both mono and strep throat can cause a sore throat, they have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments. Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and typically results in fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a sore throat, while strep throat is a bacterial infection causing red and white patches in the throat, enlarged tonsils, and fever. Mono is treated with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers, while strep throat requires antibiotics for treatment.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.