The mono blog

Unfortunately the Epstein Barr virus that causes mononucleosis or glandular fever, has the ability to establish a lifelong presence in the body.

In the majority of people a healthy immune system keeps the Epstein Barr virus in check. However about 6% of people get recurrent bouts of mononucleosis for weeks, months or years after the initial infection.

Symptoms typically include fatigue, low grade fever, sore throat and swollen lymph glands. These symptoms can fluctuate from day to day, and week to week. Periods of feeling well are often followed by a relapse, as people try to resume normal activities or exercise.

After 6 months of recurrent symptoms, Epstein Barr or mononucleosis may be reclassified as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or CFS.

Doctors will tell you that you have CFS when you have had relapsing unexplained fatigue for 6 months or more, plus 4 or more of the following symptoms:

- sore throat

- swollen lymph glands

- muscle pain

- headaches of a new type, pattern or severity

- unrefreshing sleep

- impaired short term memory or concentration

- post exercise malaise lasting more than 24 hours.

CFS patients may also report various nonspecific symptoms which can include:

dizziness, recurrent upper respiratory infections, palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, low blood sugar, tingling, allergies, chemical sensitivities and mood changes like depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

In some cases CFS may be so severe that patients become bedridden for weeks, months or years. There have been several reported deaths due to CFS, mainly from metabolic and cardiac causes, as well as suicides.

If you think you have CFS, it is important that you have a careful medical checkup to confirm your condition. It is vital to exclude other possible medical causes like auto immune disease, anemia, low thyroid function, other infectious agents, gastrointestinal disorders like coeliac, Crohn’s disease and colitis etc.

If CFS is diagnosed, an understanding practitioner who offers support and hope for a recovery is essential. The treatment for CFS is aimed at boosting the immune system through a healthy diet, nutritional supplementation, graded exercise, restoration of normal sleep patterns and strategies to overcome the frustration, depression and social isolation that the illness so commonly causes.

Elizabeth Noble

Director

Wholistic Therapy Centre

DISCLAIMER This e-mail is not to replace medical advice given by your health professional. It is recommended that you consult your doctor or health professional before following any therapeutic advice, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Never reduce or discontinue your prescribed medication without the consent of your doctor. The author cannot take medical or legal responsibility for illness arising out of the failure to seek medical advice from a doctor. © Wholistic Therapy Centre 2007