Infectious mononucleosis (IM) is commonly referred to as the “kissing disease” as it is spread through saliva.

While it is usually not a serious illness, it is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which can lead to complications such as liver inflammation, airway obstruction, and autoimmune disorders.

People with certain chronic diseases are at an increased risk of contracting infectious mononucleosis.

In this article, we will discuss some of the chronic diseases that increase the risk of IM and how you can protect yourself if you have one of these illnesses.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that affects an estimated 836,000 to 2.5 million Americans. It is characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts for six months or longer and is not improved by rest.

CFS also causes other symptoms such as pain, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.

People with CFS may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because their immune systems are already compromised.

Additionally, because CFS can cause fatigue that lasts for months, people with CFS may be more likely to engage in activities that increase their risk of contracting IM, such as kissing and sharing drinks.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and can result in permanent joint damage if left untreated.

People with RA may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because their immune systems are compromised due to the underlying disease.

Additionally, many RA medications suppress the immune system, which can make it easier for the virus to take hold.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It affects an estimated 780,000 Americans, and symptoms can range from mild to severe.

People with Crohn’s disease may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because the underlying inflammation in their digestive tract can weaken their immune system.

Additionally, many Crohn’s disease medications suppress the immune system, which can increase the risk of infection.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects an estimated 4 million Americans. It causes dry eyes, dry mouth, and other symptoms related to decreased moisture in the body.

People with Sjogren’s syndrome may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because their immune systems are already compromised due to the underlying disease.

Additionally, many Sjogren’s syndrome medications suppress the immune system, which can make it easier for the virus to take hold.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans. It can cause a range of symptoms, including joint pain, skin rashes, and fatigue.

People with lupus may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because their immune systems are already compromised due to the underlying disease.

Additionally, many lupus medications suppress the immune system, which can make it easier for the virus to take hold.

HIV

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, leaving people vulnerable to a range of infections and illnesses.

People with HIV may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because their immune systems are already weakened. Additionally, HIV medications can suppress the immune system, which can make it easier for the virus to take hold.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine when a person consumes gluten. It affects an estimated 3 million Americans.

People with celiac disease may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because the underlying damage to their intestine can weaken their immune system.

Additionally, many celiac disease medications suppress the immune system, which can increase the risk of infection.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body processes sugar (glucose), leading to high blood glucose levels.

There are two main types of diabetes: type 1, which is an autoimmune disorder, and type 2, which is related to lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise.

People with diabetes may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because the underlying high blood glucose levels can weaken the immune system.

Additionally, many diabetes medications suppress the immune system, which can increase the risk of infection.

Cancer

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. The immune system is often compromised in people with cancer due to the disease itself or the side effects of cancer treatments.

People with cancer may be at an increased risk of developing infectious mononucleosis because their immune systems are already compromised.

Additionally, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can suppress the immune system, which can make it easier for the virus to take hold.

Protecting Yourself from Infectious Mononucleosis

If you have one of these chronic diseases, or if you are simply concerned about your risk of contracting infectious mononucleosis, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself:.

Avoid kissing or sharing drinks or eating utensils with anyone who has mononucleosis or symptoms of the illness.
Wash your hands frequently, especially after coming into contact with someone who has mono or their belongings.
Avoid sharing personal items such as toothbrushes, towels, or razors.
Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet to support your immune system.
Avoid people who are sick, especially if they have a fever or other symptoms of infection.

Infectious mononucleosis can be a nuisance, but for people with chronic diseases, it can pose a serious health risk. By taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce your risk of contracting the virus and stay healthy.