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Many conditions share overlapping symptoms, and this is especially true with mononucleosis (mono) and strep throat. Both can cause sore throats, fatigue, and discomfort — but their causes, treatments, and recovery paths are very different.
Here’s how to spot the differences and when to see a doctor.
What Is Mononucleosis?
- Caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), which infects nearly 95% of people at some point in their lives.
- Common in teens and young adults, but can affect anyone.
- Spreads through saliva and close contact — often nicknamed the “kissing disease.”
Key symptoms: fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and sometimes an enlarged spleen.
What Is Strep Throat?
- A bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Affects the throat and tonsils, spreading through coughs, sneezes, or contact with droplets.
Key symptoms: painful swallowing, swollen/red tonsils, fever, and sometimes white patches or pus in the throat.
Mono vs Strep Throat: Signs and Symptoms
If you feel sharp pain in the upper left abdomen, seek care immediately — it may indicate a spleen complication from mono.
Treatment and Recovery
Mononucleosis (Mono):
- No cure or antibiotic (since it’s viral).
- Rest, fluids, and healthy nutrition are essential.
- Fatigue can last weeks to months in some cases.
- Avoid strenuous activity and contact sports (risk of spleen rupture).
Strep Throat:
- Requires antibiotics (usually penicillin or amoxicillin).
- Rest, hydration, and pain relievers can ease symptoms.
- Most recover within 7–10 days once treated.
Long-Term Effects
- Mono: Fatigue may linger for weeks or months; rare cases can lead to chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Strep throat: Usually resolves quickly with antibiotics, but untreated cases can cause complications (like rheumatic fever).
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical evaluation if you experience:
- Severe sore throat with fever
- Swollen lymph nodes or difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal pain (possible spleen involvement)
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days
Get Expert Care for Mono & Strep Throat
Whether you’re dealing with a viral infection like mono or a bacterial case of strep, the right diagnosis matters.
At BASS Medical Group, our Primary Care Providers & Infectious Disease Specialists can evaluate your symptoms, provide accurate testing, and recommend the best treatment plan.
Request an appointment today at one of our 40+ Bay Area locations.
FAQs
Is mono more serious than strep throat?
Mono can last longer and cause extreme fatigue, while strep throat clears faster with antibiotics. Both can have complications if untreated.
How can doctors tell if it’s mono or strep?
A rapid strep test detects strep bacteria. Mono is usually diagnosed with blood tests or by ruling out strep.
Can you have both mono and strep throat at the same time?
Yes, though rare. Some patients test positive for strep while also carrying EBV.
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