Do you have mononucleosis?

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Do you have mononucleosis?

Mononucleosis is also known as mono, Epstein-Barr virus infection, or “the kissing disease”. Mono is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. The condition is transmitted by an infected person’s saliva. Therefore, you can catch the condition by sharing saliva with someone either by kissing, sharing a drink, sharing food utensils, or being close to someone who has mono and coughs or sneezes. Mono can last anywhere from ten days to three months. Unfortunately, there is no medical treatment for mono. Treatment often includes treating the symptoms and getting plenty of rest. Otherwise, mono usually goes away by itself.

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Barrett’s Esophagus

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Barrett’s Esophagus

Barrett’s esophagus, however exotic sounding, is a serious complication of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease.  Gastroesophageal reflux disease is usually used interchangeably with GERD (its acronym) and acid reflux.  But there are some key differences.  Acid reflux is the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus - the tube that connects the throat to the stomach.  This backward flow occurs when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of your esophagus is weak or relaxes at the wrong time.  If the valve or sphincter is open, stomach acid is allowed to back up into your esophagus. This reflux can, in turn, cause heartburn, among other not so pleasant symptoms.

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