How To Treat Chronic Epstein
Are you concerned about catching the kissing disease? This condition isnt just for teenagers. Epstein-Barr, the virus that leads to mononucleosis can affect you at any stage of life- and you can just as easily spread it to someone else.
Heres the good news youve likely already experienced the condition, even if you werent aware of it. The Epstein-Barr virus rarely causes chronic problems but when it does, its important to take the necessary steps to tend to your health.
This article will help you learn more about living with the Epstein-Barr virus and the ways that you can keep it under control.
Immunopathobiology Of The Epstein
EBV belongs to the family of -herpesvirus . Amongst other cell types, it infects B cells of adjacent lymphoid tissues before establishing a lifelong latent infection in memory B cells . Indeed, the virus maintains a latent state as an episome without expressing viral genes, allowing B cells with latency 0 and some B cells with latency I to escape immune surveillance .
Efficient B cell infection by EBV requires up to 5 envelope glycoproteins, whereby gp42 ultimately promotes entry of the virus into B cells through the interaction with host MHC class II molecules . Gp42 binds to 1 domain of the chain of HLA-DR -DQ, or DP and blocks TCR-HLA-DR interactions impairing antigen presentation . Hence, gp42-expressing B cells show reduced ability to activate CD4 T cells . Furthermore, gp42 can be presented as a membrane protein bound to MHC-II molecules or in a soluble form . Both have been detected during the lytic phase in Burkitt lymphoma , suggesting that soluble gp42 is generated during EBV lytic infection and inhibits the presentation of HLA-II restricted antigens to T cells . Noteworthy, EBNA-1 specific cytotoxic CD4 T cells are decreased in patients with post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders , in some pediatric forms of Burkitt lymphoma , in EBV-positive lymphoma , in lymphomas associated with HIV infection , and in lymphoma infiltrating the central nervous system . By contrast, the immune response in healthy individuals is sufficient to control EBV infection .
Ebv Can Be An Underlying Cause Of:
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Thyroid disease
Autoimmune conditions
EBV is also linked to different types of cancer, including Hodgkins lymphoma, B cell lymphoma, Burkitts lymphoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma .
These conditions all share a common link in the way EBV impacts immune function. Scientists believe its likely we dont yet realize how often this virus is linked to more serious conditions that interfere with healthy immune function.
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What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor
If you have mono, you may want to ask your healthcare provider:
- What are the best treatments for mono symptoms?
- How long am I contagious?
- What steps can I take to prevent infecting others with this virus?
- How long will it take to recover from mono?
- When can I go back to work or school?
- When can I get back to exercise and physical activity?
- Can I get mono again?
- Should I look out for signs of complications?
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Most cases of mononucleosis dont cause serious problems. However, symptoms like extreme fatigue, sore throat and body aches can disrupt school, work and life. Your healthcare provider can provide suggestions for finding relief. Rest and over-the-counter medications are often the best ways to ease symptoms. Its also important to avoid strenuous physical activity that may rupture an enlarged spleen.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/03/2020.
References
What Causes Infectious Mononucleosis
The most common cause of infectious mononucleosis is the Epstein-Barr virus , but other viruses, such as the cytomegalovirus, can also cause it. It’s often spread through contact with infected saliva .Adolescents and young adults who are exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus have a 50 percent chance of developing symptoms.
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What Causes The Reactivation Of Epstein
Your immune system is effective at keeping EBV in its latent state, but certain things can weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood that Epstein-Barr comes out of its inactive state.
Triggers for the reactivation of EBV include anything that places an increased burden on the immune system, such as:
- Unmanaged stress
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
- Celiac disease.
This study shows that a protein produced by the virus, called EBNA2, binds to DNA and affects the expression of genes nearby.
The scientists in this study wanted to note, however, that this virus isnt the only factor responsible for the activation of these genes. Other illnesses, exposure to toxins, an unhealthy lifestyle, and diet all play a role in the epigenetics of disease.
What Is The Epstein
Epstein-Barr is a member of the herpes virus family, and is one of the most common viruses in the worldfound in as many as 9 out of 10 adults. When exposed in early childhood, symptoms can resolve largely unnoticed. EBV spreads mainly through saliva, which is why mononucleosisor monowhich is caused by EBV, is known as the kissing disease.
Initial EBV infection symptoms often include fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
Exposure to EBV causes mono in about a quarter of all cases, but can also cause more serious and even fatal conditions which affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous systemespecially in those with compromised immune function .
Extreme fatigue is a common occurrence in mono infections as well as among other conditions caused by EBV.
Are you struggling with Chronic Fatigue or myalgic encephalomyelitis ? Reach out to an integrative doctor at CentreSpringMD to resolve the root causes behind this misunderstood condition.
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Treatment For Chronic Epstein Barr
My son has been suffering with this for over a year. I have taken him to an immunologist and infectious disease doctor with no answers. He is always tired and never feels well. He has relapsed with Mono twice in the last 10 months.
Hello ,
Im sorry to hear about your sons diagnosis, but Im so glad you chose to come to the Connect community to seek support and get some answers.
For now, Id like to introduce you to , , , , , , , who have all discussed Epstein-Barr Virus , and I sincerely hope they will return with some more insight.
Here is some more information from Mayo Clinic:
, chronic fatigue is one of the symptoms of this condition could you tell us a little more about your son? How old is he? What other symptoms does he have?
My son is 17yrs. old and a senior in high school. He got the Epstein Barr virus 14 months ago, which caused Mono with another relapse with it a month later. His doctor made him homebound from school for 4 months, due to the severity of this. He has been to see an immunologist and infectious disease doctor, but no help in solving this puzzle. Since diagnosed with Chronic Epstein Barr, hes been constantly fatigued, just doesnt feel great half of the time, and is constantly contracting other infections and viruses.
Vitamin C is a cofactor in the viral immune system can take as much as 900-1000 mg once-twice daily.
Who Might Get Mononucleosis
There are often two peaks when people acquire EBV: early school age children and again around adolescence/young adulthood. Young children are often asymptomatic, whereas teenagers and people in their 20s are most likely to get mono. About one in four people in this age group who get EBV come down with mono, but anyone can get it, no matter their age.
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Causes Of Glandular Fever
Glandular fever is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus . EBV is most often spread through the saliva of someone who carries the infection.
For example, it can be spread through:
- kissing glandular fever is sometimes referred to as the “kissing disease”
- sharing food and drinks
- exposure to coughs and sneezes
Small children may be infected by chewing toys that have been contaminated with the virus.
When you come into contact with infected saliva, the virus can infect the cells on the lining of your throat.
The infection is then passed into your white blood cells before spreading through the lymphatic system.
This is a series of glands found throughout your body that allows many of the cells that your immune system needs to travel around the body.
After the infection has passed, people develop lifelong immunity to the virus and most won’t develop symptoms again.
Many people are first exposed to EBV during childhood, when the infection causes few symptoms and often goes unrecognised before it eventually passes.
Young adults may be most at risk of glandular fever because they might not have been exposed to the virus when they were younger, and the infection tends to produce more severe symptoms when you’re older.
High Dose Vitamin C Produces An Oxidative Reaction
Vitamin C is primarily known as an antioxidant which means it helps protect against oxidative stress. However, in higher concentrations, vitamin C functions as a pro-oxidant. It is through the pro-oxidant, or oxidative, mechanism that vitamin C can kill viruses and bacteria. Vitamin C dosages above 20 gram are generally considered oxidative and are often referred to as âhigh-dose.â
Research has shown oral supplementation with vitamin C can only reach blood plasma concentrations of 220 micromol/L while 50 grams intravenous vitamin C concentrations peak at 13,4000 micromol/L
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What Are The Treatments For Epstein
There is no specific medicine to treat mononucleosis. Some physicians use corticosteroids to treat significant swelling in the throat or an enlarged spleen, but steroids are not needed in most people. Antiviral medications are available to help oral hairy leukoplakia, including acyclovir , ganciclovir , and foscarnet .
People with acute mononucleosis usually recover completely and do not need prolonged follow-up. The exceptions are people with an enlarged spleen who should be followed until this resolves. The few individuals who develop chronic neurological changes usually have follow-up with a neurologist.
How Do You Contract The Chronic Epstein
The Epstein-Barr virus is primarily spread through the oral transfer of saliva and genital secretions. However, any body fluid can spread the virus, including blood transfusions and organ transplants. As the virus can remain alive outside the body for as long as its in a moist environment, its also possible to spread EBV from sharing personal items like a toothbrush or drinking glass with someone who is contagious.
After you become infected, the Epstein-Barr virus stays dormant in the DNA of cell tissues indefinitely. This means that you will always carry the virus in your cells, though it is unlikely to be reactivated unless your immune system functioning is compromised. This provides you with adaptive immunity to the virus and significantly reduces your chances of developing symptoms again.
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Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Inherited
Chronic fatigue syndrome does appear to run in families. There have been some studies suggesting various genes that may be inherited and increase the risk of developing chronic fatigue syndrome. However, it is generally considered that the tendency to occur in more than one family member is because of a shared environment or lifestyle.
Preventing The Spread Of Infection
There is no need to be isolated from others if you have glandular fever as most people will already be immune to the Epstein-Barr virus .
You can return to work, college or school as soon as you feel well enough. There is little risk of spreading the infection to others as long as you follow commonsense precautions while you are ill, such as not kissing other people or sharing utensils.
It is also important to thoroughly clean anything that may have been contaminated by saliva until you have recovered.
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Ebv: A Common Human Herpesvirus
EBV has swept across the globe, and its much more common than you might imagine: more than 95% of the worlds population has been infected with it. EBV is a herpes-type virus, and its a close relative of genital herpes. Known technically as human herpesvirus 4 , its #4 on the list of nine different herpes-type viruses that can infect humans.
Herpesviruses are composed of strands of DNA inside an envelope. After initial infection, theyll lie dormant in your tissues indefinitely. In other words, if youve ever been infected with a herpesvirus like EBV, youll carry it with you for life, however, the virus can reactivate if immune system functions become depressed.
Here Are The Top 10 Natural Treatments For Epstein Barr Virus :
1. Larrea Tridentata
This herb has shown tremendous promise in the initial phase of medical testing for natural treatment of EBV. The concentrated leaf resin of Larrea has shown high amount of antioxidant and anti-viral activity. This clearly means that the resin can thwart virus growth. The Larrea is available in oral dietary supplement, spray, and lotion forms for the usage of the patients. It has been found to be an effective way of naturally treating EBV.
2. Olive Leaf Extract
The olive leaves are very active ingredients and antibiotic. It is a natural but an effective medicine to cure virus infection. It strengthens immunity and inhibits the entry of viruses in the body.
3. Fresh Raw Carrot Juice
Carrot contains vitamin A which is good for immunity of body. Hence try to take one glass of carrot juice every morning and increase your immune system against EBV.
4. Adequate Rest
The best natural treatment is bed rest. Todays highly hectic life is not letting us live our life in a proper way. We just have to keep running around and the immunity of the body is getting weakened due to it. A healthy body is a fit one and can fight against viruses causing many diseases. Hence take adequate amount of bed rest to keep your body fit.
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Cher Suffers From Epstein
Chers ordeal at the hands of the Epstein-Barr Virus has been well-documented over the years, and the pop diva has never kept her condition a secret.
In 1992, Cher took some time off from her career and it was widely reported that the virus was responsible. My experience was it was really a physical illness but it does make you depressed as well, she told the BBC. Its a virus you have its called Epstein Barr virus and the disease it gives you is chronic fatigue.
Boy, it was devastating for meI wasnt able to work for almost three years, the singer added.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is also known as post-viral fatigue syndrome and occurs after the sufferer has been infected. The Epstein-Barr virus itself is a relatively common condition found in adults. It can lie dormant, but in 50% of cases progresses to infectious mononucleosis, causing symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph glands, according to the BBC.
The virus remains in the body even after symptoms have passed and can reactivate at any point. The effects of CFS are similar and, like with Epstein-Barr virus, treatment is only available for the relief of symptoms and not the cause.
The star reportedly suffered another bout of illness in 2008 and had to delay several shows as a result, although her publicist claimed at the time that Cher contracted Vegas throat a condition caused by the dry desert air in the region, the Daily Mail reported.
Images: PR photos
Healing Herbs And Food Supplements
The following selection of herbs and food supplements can further strengthen your immune system and aid your body in healing from the viruss effects.
Read more about healing herbs and food supplements to treat Epstein-Barr virus from the bookMedical Medium: Secrets Behind Chronic and Mystery Illness and How to Finally Heal.
- Probiotics A healthy gut is necessary for a healthy immune system.
- AshwagandhaAshwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, meaning your cells can adapt its use to your needs.
- Vitamin D If necessary, take extra vitamin D. A simple blood test from your doctor will reveal your vitamin D levels, and this is one of the easiest deficiencies to fix with a high-qualityvitamin D3 supplement.
- ZincStrengthens the immune system and protects the thyroid from EBV inflammation.
- Vitamin B12 Srengthens the central nervous system.
- Licorice root Lowers EBV production and strengthens the adrenals and kidneys.
- Selenium Strengthens and protects the central nervous system.
- Red marine algae: powerful antiviral that removes heavy metals such as mercury and reduces viral load.
- Spirulina Eliminates heavy metals and rebuilds the central nervous system.
- Vitamin C Strengthens the immune system and flushes EBV toxins from the liver.
- Nettle leaf Provides vital micronutrients to the brain, blood, and central nervous system.
- Curcumin Component of turmeric that helps strengthen the endocrine system and central nervous system.
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Chronic Fatigue Possibly Related To Epstein
From November 1984 through August 1985, approximately 90 patientsevaluated for persistent fatigue were diagnosed as having chronicEpstein-Barr virus disease by a two-physician communityinternal medicine practice near Lake Tahoe, Nevada. The diagnoseswere made by detecting antibody to the diffuse or therestricted components of early antigen of EBV, as suggested bytwo recent studies .
Because of controversy about whether CEBV disease exists, twoserologic studies were conducted to evaluate whether a syndrome ofchronic fatigue could be statistically associated with a specificpattern of antibody titers against EBV. Fifteen “case” patients, feltto be the most likely to have CEBV, were identified by interviewing134 of the 139 patients tested for EBV serology in the internalmedicine practice between January 1, and August 20, 1985. Bydefinition, these patients had persistent or relapsing unexplainedfatigue for at least 2 months, which forced them to stop usual dailyactivities for at least 2 weeks. Other less universal symptomsincluded intermittent low-grade fever, sore throat, myalgias,arthralgias, and headaches. All 15 patients were white 13 werefemale. The median age was 40 years .
