When you wake up with a scratchy throat, your first thought is probably the common cold. But when that sore throat persists, you may start to wonder if it’s something more like strep throat. What likely doesn’t pop into your head is the idea that it may be mononucleosis, commonly shortened to mono.
Because it’s typically referred to as the “kissing disease,” mono is often dismissed as a reason for symptoms. However, this contagious viral infection can be transmitted in many different ways—in fact, as many as 90 to 95 percent of adults are infected with the virus that causes mono.
It’s important that you’re able to identify the symptoms of both strep throat and mono so that you can get treated accordingly. Here’s a look at the difference between both illnesses and the steps you should take to treat each.
Causes of both mono and strep throat
While the symptoms of mono and strep throat are very similar, the causes are completely different. Here’s the difference between the two.
Causes of mono
Mono is a viral infection most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It’s important to note that not everyone who gets EBV will develop mono. Mono is most common in teens and young adults, and at least 25% of young people who contract EBV will go on to suffer from mono.
Causes of strep throat
Many people believe strep throat is caused by viruses since that’s the most common cause of a sore throat. However, strep throat is actually caused by bacteria. Group A streptococcus (group A strep) is the most common cause of strep throat. While anyone can suffer from strep throat, the most likely to develop the infection are children and teens.
What are the symptoms of mono?
Mono impacts all ages, including young children, but it’s most common in teenagers and college-aged adults. As you get older, the symptoms of mono tend to get more severe.
Because the symptoms of mono are so similar to those of the cold and flu, most people are quick to incorrectly diagnose themselves.
Those suffering from mono usually experience the following symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Body aches
- Severe fatigue
- Headache
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpits
- Enlarged liver or spleen
- Rash
- Loss of appetite
Typically, symptoms of mono last two to four weeks; however, about 10% of those with the infection have noted persistent fatigue past six months (UTD).
What are the symptoms of strep throat?
Symptoms of strep throat are very similar to those of mono and can include:
- Sore throat (that often starts suddenly)
- Red and swollen tonsils
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Red and swollen tonsils
- Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck
- Pain when swallowing
It’s possible for those affected by strep throat to experience symptoms that impact the GI system like belly pain and nausea. It’s unlikely that a cough or runny nose accompanies strep throat as those are more often associated with a viral illness.
What are the differences between mono and strep throat?
While many of the physical symptoms of strep throat and mono are the same, there are some key differentiators. For instance, when you have strep throat, you will notice white patches on your tonsils. You may also discover red spots on the roof of your mouth.
With mono, spleen enlargement is a common side effect, so you may feel pressure or pain in the upper left area of your abdomen. If this happens, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Are mono and strep throat diagnosed the same way?
If you’re suffering from strep throat symptoms, a provider can properly diagnose you by performing a rapid strep test or throat culture.
During a rapid strep test, your provider will swab your throat using a long q-tip and then run a test on the swab. If group A strep appears during the test, you will likely be prescribed an antibiotic. In some cases, the test can come back negative, but your provider may recommend a throat culture if he or she suspects strep throat.
Mono, on the other hand, must be diagnosed through a blood test. This will check for the antibodies that your body makes to fight EBV. Your provider may also want to test for a high number of white blood cells as this could be an indication of infection.
How do you treat strep throat?
Strep throat is typically treated with antibiotics. Most providers will prescribe either penicillin or amoxicillin (as long as you aren’t allergic). Antibiotics will help:
- Decrease the amount of time you’re sick
- Help alleviate symptoms
- Keep the bacteria from spreading to other people
- Prevent serious complications (such as rheumatic fever)
If you test positive for strep throat but aren’t exhibiting symptoms (this is called a “carrier”), you may not need antibiotics since you’re less likely to spread the bacteria to others. If you think you or your child may be a strep carrier, it’s a good idea to talk with your provider.
How do you treat mono?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for mono. Antibiotics that are typically prescribed to fight bacterial infections have no effect on the virus. Your provider will most likely recommend you take the following measures to help relieve symptoms and start feeling better:
- Get plenty of rest: Because mono can be physically exhausting, it’s important that you get plenty of rest. Sleep is a key step to fighting infection.
- Stay hydrated: Try to drink as much water as you can to prevent dehydration while you’re sick.
- Take pain relievers when needed: In order to alleviate pain, your provider may recommend you take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help relieve your fever, inflammation, headaches and muscle aches.
- Avoid sports: One of the most common side effects of mono is an enlarged spleen, so you must avoid physical activity that can put too much pressure on it, causing it to rupture.
- Gargle salt water: This is one of the best ways to alleviate a sore throat caused by mono. Using throat lozenges is another great option.
If you’re showing signs of either strep throat or mono, it’s important that you see a provider quickly to begin treatment or relieving symptoms.
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