The Epstein Barr virus (EBV) is the cause of Epstein Barr Disease, commonly called mononucleosis or glandular fever. The illness is most common in teenagers and young adults, although it can occur in children and the elderly. Most people have had EBV by age 40.
Symptoms of Epstein Barr Disease may include sore throat, swollen lymph glands, fatigue, fever, headache, nausea and gastrointestinal upsets. Complications can be liver and spleen enlargement, secondary infections like strep throat and pneumonia, inflammation of the heart and brain, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There is an association between the virus and MS, and some rare cancers, although the triggers for development of these diseases are still unknown.
EBV is transmitted via saliva through kissing or sharing drinks, eating utensils, lipsticks etc. The incubation period is 30 – 50 days from exposure to the virus to symptoms appearing. The virus is shed from the throat of an infected person during the active phase of the illness. It can also be shed intermittently from the throat of a healthy carrier who shows no symptoms.
EBV is a member of the herpes family. Once the virus has been contacted, it remains in the body for life. Most people get over the initial infection within a couple of weeks to a month. However in some people there is a recurrence of symptoms for months or years after the initial infection.
Conventional treatment of EBV is rest, plenty of fluids and painkillers to relieve the symptoms. Antibiotics are of no use treating this illness because it is caused by a virus not a bacteria.
Natural Epstein Barr Disease treatment is focused on boosting immunity, repairing the adrenals, supporting the liver and cleansing the lymph. An EBV cure is aimed at getting the initial infection under control and keeping the symptoms at bay for life.
EBV remedies include the use of high dose vitamin C, zinc, magnesium and the B complex. Anti-viral herbs like echinacea, astragalus and olive leaf extract are beneficial. If the liver and lymph are congested then the herbs milk thistle and red root can help.
A diet for EBV should provide high quality protein with each meal. An abundance of fresh vegetables, low carb fruit and essential fats are important to rebuild strength and immunity. Sugars, alcohol, caffeine and processed foods should be avoided.
Chronic Epstein Barr Disease patients may need to incorporate other therapies like liver cleansing, graded exercise and stress management into their routines in order to get a complete recovery. Support from a health professional, family, friends or a support group is vital. Without support and motivation, depression and lethargy can set in, making recovery more difficult.