Mono (Infectious Mononucleosis) Testing & Treatment in DFW

Mono Infectious Mononucleosis1 iCare ER & Urgent Care

Mono Testing & Mononucleosis Care in DFW

Fast, Accurate Mono Diagnosis at iCare ER & Urgent Care (Frisco, Fort Worth & Forney)

If you’ve been dealing with persistent fatigue, a severe sore throat, swollen glands, or symptoms that simply won’t go away, you may need testing for mononucleosis (mono). Mono is commonly caused by the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)and often mimics illnesses such as flu, strep, COVID-19, and other upper respiratory infections, making proper testing essential.

At iCare ER & Urgent Care, our experienced medical teams offer rapid in-house mono testing, EBV antibody panels, and comprehensive evaluation so you can receive answers quickly. With Urgent Care available 7am–8pm and a 24/7 Emergency Room under one roof, you’re always guided to the correct level of care—no transfers, no delays.

What Is Mono (Infectious Mononucleosis)?

Mono is a viral illness spread primarily through saliva, which is why it’s often linked to kissing or sharing drinks. However, it can also spread through coughing, sneezing, or close personal contact. According to the CDC, mono most commonly affects teens and young adults, but patients of any age can develop symptoms.

Because mono symptoms closely resemble conditions such as strep throat, flu, COVID-19, and upper respiratory infections, clinical evaluation is important.
Learn about related illnesses we treat:

 

Symptoms of Mono

Mono symptoms often develop gradually and may last for weeks. Common signs include:

  • Prolonged or severe fatigue

  • Sore throat that doesn’t improve with typical care

  • Fever

  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpits

  • Swollen tonsils or white throat patches

  • Headache or body aches

  • Loss of appetite

  • Rash

  • Upper-left abdominal pain (possible spleen involvement)

If your symptoms are lasting longer than 7–10 days or are worsening, testing is recommended.

How Mono Spreads & Why Symptoms Persist

Mono is primarily spread through saliva, but sharing drinks, utensils, lip products, and even close conversation can be enough for transmission. The Mayo Clinic notes that individuals may be contagious before symptoms begin, throughout the illness, and even weeks to months afterward.

Mono typically progresses through:

1. Acute Phase (2–4 Weeks)

Fever, swollen glands, sore throat, and intense fatigue.

2. Recovery Phase (Weeks to Months)

Fatigue gradually improves, but can linger without proper rest.

3. Spleen Precautions (4–6+ Weeks)

Because mono may enlarge the spleen, avoiding contact sports, heavy lifting, or high-impact activity is essential.

If abdominal pain occurs, especially sharp left-sided pain, seek immediate care:

 

Mono Testing at iCare ER & Urgent Care

iCare provides comprehensive, accurate testing for mono using a combination of rapid on-site diagnostics and confirmatory laboratory tests.

In-House Testing Options

✔ Monospot Test

A rapid antibody test used to screen for mono with same-day results.

✔ BioFire FilmArray Panel

While BioFire does not detect EBV directly, it rapidly rules out illnesses with similar symptoms, including:

  • Influenza

  • RSV

  • COVID-19

  • Other viral infections

Related symptom pages:

Send-Out Laboratory Testing (When Needed)

Used when symptoms are early or a more detailed evaluation is required:

  • EBV antibody panel (VCA IgM, VCA IgG, EBNA)

  • CBC to detect atypical lymphocytes

  • Liver function tests

  • Additional viral diagnostics as needed

This combined approach ensures a highly accurate diagnosis—especially in early-stage mono.

When to Visit Urgent Care vs. the ER

Because mono varies widely from mild to severe, understanding when to seek care is crucial.

Visit Urgent Care (7am–8pm) for:

  • Persistent sore throat

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Fever not improving

  • Fatigue lasting more than a week

  • Suspected exposure to mono

  • Need for rapid, in-house testing

Urgent Care Services: https://www.icare-er.com/urgent-care/

Visit the ER (Open 24/7) for:

These symptoms can indicate complications such as spleen enlargement or airway issues:

  • Sudden or severe left-sided abdominal pain

  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

  • Severe dehydration

  • Confusion, fainting, or extreme weakness

  • Sudden chest pain or shortness of breath

Emergency symptom pages:

iCare’s dual-care model ensures you receive the correct level of care immediately.

Treatment & Recovery

There is no antiviral cure for mono, but treatment focuses on rest, symptom relief, and preventing complications.

Most patients benefit from:

  • Adequate rest and reduced activity

  • Hydration

  • Ibuprofen or acetaminophen

  • Salt-water gargles or throat lozenges

  • Avoiding alcohol (due to potential liver involvement)

  • Gradually returning to daily routines

To prevent spleen injury, avoid:

  • Contact sports

  • Heavy lifting

  • High-impact exercise

Related pages:

 

Mono Testing for Children & Teens

Mono is especially common in adolescents. While children may show milder or atypical symptoms, evaluation is still important. iCare provides pediatric-specific care through:

 

Why Choose iCare ER & Urgent Care for Mono Testing?

  • Rapid in-house mono testing

  • EBV antibody confirmation when needed

  • Advanced diagnostics to rule out similar illnesses

  • On-site imaging for spleen concerns

  • Urgent Care + ER in one facility

  • Minimal wait times

  • Adult and pediatric care

  • Walk-ins welcome

 

Get Fast, Accurate Mono Testing Today

If you’re experiencing prolonged fatigue, a severe sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes, don’t wait to get answers. iCare ER & Urgent Care provides same-day evaluation and mono testing across the DFW Metroplex.

Urgent Care: 7:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Emergency Room: 24/7

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