When most people think of mononucleosis, commonly known as just “mono,” they associate it with extreme fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. But what about stomach issues? Can mono cause gastrointestinal (GA) symptoms like nausea, stomach pain, or loss of appetite? The short answer is yes, mono can affect the digestive system, but it’s not very common. GI symptoms are present in more severe cases or younger children. Continue reading to learn more!
For same-day mono testing and care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9 in Elizabeth, NJ. We have on-site labs that allow for the quickest diagnostics around. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by checking-in below.
How Mono Affects The Body
Mono is most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and spreads through saliva and close personal contact. After entering the body, the virus targets the immune system and can affect multiple organs– not just the throat and lymph nodes. In some cases, the liver and spleen become inflamed, which can trigger a variety of digestive symptoms.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms of Mono
While not everyone with mono will experience GI symptoms, some patients report the following:
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Vomiting (less common)
- Indigestion or bloating
- Diarrhea (rare, but possible)
These symptoms are usually mild to moderate but can feel worse if the liver or spleen is significantly affected.
Liver and Spleen Involvement
One of the reasons mono may cause GI symptoms is due to inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) or spleen (splenomegaly):
- Enlarged Liver: Inflammation of the liver can lead to upper right abdominal discomfort and changes in appetite. Lab tests may show mildly elevated liver enzymes during a mono infection.
- Enlarged Spleen: A swollen spleen may cause pain or pressure in the upper left abdomen, especially after eating. This is a common complication of mono and is why physical activity (particularly during contact sports) is discouraged during recovery.
If you feel pain in your upper abdomen, especially with a known or suspected mono diagnosis, it’s important to get evaluated. In rare cases, a severely enlarged spleen can rupture, which is a medical emergency.
When To See a Medical Provider
While mild GI symptoms may improve on their own, seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain, especially on the left side
- Yellowing of the skin
- Dark urine or pale stools
- High fever lasting more than a few days
A provider can perform a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging if needed to check for liver or spleen involvement and rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Get Walk-In Mono Testing at AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9
While gastrointestinal symptoms aren’t the hallmark signs of mono, they can occur, especially when the liver or spleen is involved. If you have stomach discomfort, appetite changes, or nausea along with fatigue and sore throat, it’s worth getting checked for mononucleosis. At AFC Urgent Care US Route 1-9, we can provide a quick evaluation, testing, and symptom management to help you recover safely. Our center is open 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Don’t ignore your symptoms– visit us today! We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 570-5801.
