What are the symptoms of cytomegalovirus?

Most people who have a cytomegalovirus infection do not experience any symptoms at all, although you may develop symptoms such as fatigue, fever, sore throat, headache, and swollen glands. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to have symptoms, which may be severe and can affect different organs in the body.

Common symptoms of cytomegalovirus

Although most people with cytomegalovirus do not have symptoms, if you do experience symptoms, they may be similar to mononucleosis. Common symptoms of cytomegalovirus include:

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

Although cytomegalovirus infection typically resolves on its own, complications can occur. In some cases, cytomegalovirus infection can be life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these life-threatening symptoms including:

  • Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
  • Change in mental status or sudden behavior change, such as confusion, delirium, lethargy, hallucinations and delusions
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Seizure
  • Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
INTRODUCTION

What is cytomegalovirus?

Cytomegalovirus is a virus belonging to the herpesvirus family that commonly infects humans. Although cytomegalovirus infections are very common, most people who have the infection do not feel sick or even notice the infection. Others, particularly those whose immune systems are weakened, develop symptoms that resemble mononucleosis. People whose immune systems are weakened are also more l... Read more about cytomegalovirus introduction

CAUSES

What causes cytomegalovirus?

Cytomegalovirus is a member of the herpesvirus family. It is contagious and spreads from person to person, but most people never develop symptoms. It can be spread through all bodily fluids and can also spread from a pregnant mother to her baby.... Read more about cytomegalovirus causes

TREATMENTS

How is cytomegalovirus treated?

Cytomegalovirus typically resolves on its own and rarely requires treatment. However, your doctor might prescribe antiviral medications if you have a weakened immune system.... Read more about cytomegalovirus treatments

Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 2, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

This Article is Filed Under: Infections and Contagious Diseases


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