Mono...

knuckles · 05-09-2005, 04:40 PM

So I was diagnosed with mononucleosis this morning, and my doctor advised me to not lift until the symptoms go away. Problem is, the symptoms of mono usually last weeks and sometimes months. Now, as I understand it, with mono, your spleen enlarges and there is a possibility of it rupturing. This possibility supposedly becomes more likely with physical activity. Can anyone offer any advice as to whether I should stop my training for a few weeks or just continue?

Thanks.

Bill Hartman · 05-09-2005, 04:53 PM

So a guy who went to college for 4 years, medical school for another 4, and at least 3 years of residency tells you not to train when you have mono...hmmmm?

Okay, kidding aside. Don't train. Your body won't like it. I've yet to hear of a ruptured spleen from activity during mono, but that's probably because most folks with mono have trouble standing long enough to do anything but make it to the bathroom and back.

There's also a greater likelyhood of relapse if you increase activity levels too soon.

I'm sure the MD's can offer some more advice as this not my forte, but I do speak from experience.

Ride it out and best of luck.

Bill

APAOps5 · 05-09-2005, 05:30 PM

Listen to the Doc, even if it's what you don't want to hear.

knuckles · 05-09-2005, 08:04 PM

K, thanks guys, just wanted to be sure because I hate missing workouts...

bryanc · 05-10-2005, 09:57 PM

I've heard of a ruptured spleen even after mono symptoms have passed.

Return to play/workout rules for mono are pretty clear. No activity while symptomatic because a) it wipes you out, b) prolongs your symptomatic period, c) makes you prone to relapse and d) risk of splenic rupture.

No impact/contact sports while the spleen is still enlarged after symptoms resolve.

If we can feel your spleen it's at least 5 times larger than it normally is.