When to Resume Activities After Mono

Dear Ask The Doctor: I was diagnosed with mono 4 weeks ago. My doctor concluded that I had mono after blood work and my right lymphnode in my neck being enlarged. I reported the lymphnode being enlarged since at least March 8. I do know that I noticed it enlarged even some time before that date. I had blood work come back fine this week, but my doctor wants a follow up appointment for Tuesday (seems unnecessary). My question is I feel fine, my lymphnode is not enlarged anymore, blood work from this week came back fine, and I have no other symptoms of Mono....When can I resume activities?

Dear Patrick: I understand your concern about activities after having Mononucleosis. One of the most important conditions that must be cleared in order to resume normal activities when you feel up to it is when an enlarged spleen is present; this situation leaves the organ exposed in the abdomen and susceptible to injury. These patients should wait until their healthcare providers give them clearance before they return to do activities and especially contact sports. Until then, patients who have an enlarged spleen should avoid such activities as and bicycle riding, the latter because it could cause handlebar injuries to the abdomen. I would suggest you to comply with your follow up visit to make sure that you dont have an enlarged spleen and to rule out Mono completely. I wish you the best.