May 19 2009
Epstein Barr Virus Infection and Auto Immune Disease
Epstein Barr virus infection is a possible trigger for various auto immune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome. Autoimmunity occurs when the immune system produces auto antibodies to an endogenous antigen. This causes inflammation and injury to body tissues.
Although Epstein Barr virus infection is usually self-limiting, auto immune disease is considered to be a permanent degenerative disease. Due to this permanent nature, long term therapy is necessary. Conventional medicine offers anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids, however the toxic side effects of these drugs may rival the disease in their degenerative effects.
Fortunately there is a lot that can be done with natural therapies for both Epstein Barr virus infection and for auto immune diseases.
The aim of auto immune natural treatment is to reduce the levels of auto antibodies, inhibit inflammation and repair tissues, without the adverse side effects of conventional medicine.
The first priority is to optimize digestive function with a good healthy diet and digestive enzymes like pancreatic concentrates and Betaine HCl. This will reduce antigen absorption commonly seen in patients with auto immunity.
Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine is associated with the development of auto immunity so normalizing microbial balance of the gastrointestinal tract is vital. Acidophillus and bifido bacteria plus a range of other probiotics are easily sourced from pharmacies and health food shops. Bowel and liver detoxification can be done regularly in order to reduce antigens and circulating antibodies.
The next step is to get onto some anti-inflammatory nutrients like high dose vitamin C, zinc, and fish oils. Foods like turmeric, rosemary oil, ginger and reishi mushroom are also powerful anti-inflammatories.
Lastly a low carb, high protein diet with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and pure water is important. A healthy diet will help with tissue repair and also minimize tissue inflammation.
If you or a loved one are suffering from an Epstein Barr virus infection, or the virus has triggered an auto immune disease, then natural therapies may offer you a solution. All these techniques discussed above are outlined in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.
Elizabeth has recovered from chronic Epstein Barr virus infection herself, and treated thousands of people successfully through her clinics.
66 responses so far
here is my question, I had Mononucleosis when i was fifteen. It took nearly a year to feel better.
I regained most of my energy back but was never fully the same. I have battled fatigue, and tire easily. I also have bad circulation and couldn’t handle winters without constant joint pain and purplish hands and feet this has progressed as i have gotten older. could having mono affected me permanently? i now live in a warm climate and have not suffered joint pain but still become tired easily.
Linda
Hi Linda,
The Epstein Barr virus that causes mono can cause fatigue for many months or years after infection. In severe cases
it is re-classified as post-viral syndrome or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I would recommend you start on some magnesium, B vitamins and vitamin C in order to support your adrenal glands. Eat small, frequent meals, high in protein and low in processed carbs. Get enough rest and some regular exercise, and hopefully you will find your stamina improves. You may also need to check with your doctor that you do not have other conditions like anaemia or an underactive thyroid that can also cause fatigue.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth, Ihad mono back when I was a young teen, in my 40′s I developed Myasthenia Gravis & then Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and then allergies & asthma. Now at 61 the MG is up & down w/ the weather being over tired if I get a cold you name it it acts up & along w/ allergies. Any suggestions for me.
Hi Maggie,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you are struggling with your health. It can be very worrying.
With any auto immune disease, it is essential to cleanse the body of toxins, acids and pathogenic bacteria. I would recommend you start on a gentle gastrointestinal and liver cleanse. You can normally get basic cleansing kits from a naturopath or good health food shops.
For Myasthenia gravis, high dose magnesium, the B complex and fish oils are important for optimal nerve and muscle control. For your allergies, vitamin C, zinc and herbs like garlic,
fenugreek and horseradish are great.
With the complexity of your condition I would suggest you see a holistic doctor who can guide you and monitor your progress.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Hello,
I had mono when I was 12 and at 23 I was diagnosed with Hypothyroid, now at 33 my doctor says I have Hashimoto’s. I take a synthetic hormone daily, but would like to stop. My reading has lead me to think that this mono virus still lives in my thyroid and that is why I have developed Hashimoto’s, what do you recommend?
Thanks,
Jenn
Hi Jenn,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you have been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s.
It is possible that the Epstein Barr virus that causes mono has played a part in
its development.
Once you start on synthetic hormones it can be hard to get off them. There are
natural ways to support your thyroid health however it is advisable to work
closely with your doctor or a holistic practitioner to see if they can wean you off
the synthetic hormones.
Here is a link to a recent blog I wrote regarding treating the thyroid naturally:
http://www-epsteinbarrvirus.com/blog/complications-of-mono/healingyourthyroid/
I hope it helps.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Dear Elizabeth, I’m desperately in need of some help. I had mono when I was 16 and then again at 26, so I’ve had CMV and EBV mono. After the last time I never recovered. I kept going to doctors and insisting that something was wrong with me. Finally, almost 4 years later, and a much weaker me, I have been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease. Autoimmune illnesses don’t run in my family, but susceptibility to allergies, asthma, and mono do. I’ve tried nearly every natural remedy there is to try to feel better, and nothing helps. I was wondering if olive leaf extract might work. I did give it a try once, and might have experienced the die-off effect, so I quit. What do u think? Years of healthy eating and vitamins have not been the answer for me, and the Synthroid I got put on about a month ago actually lowered my thyroid function, wich my doctor says is normal at first. (I wonder if he knows what he’s talking about there.) Anyway, feeling worse than ever, with a general feeling of malaise and no available remedies left to try. Please offer dome suggestions if you can. I would greatly appreciate it. Thank, Crystal
Hi Crystal,
Thanks for your post. Sorry you’ve had such a hard time with mono.
Olive leaf extract is an excellent immune booster that I get good
results in my patients with. Some people do get die-off reactions
as the virus and other microbes are killed off and eliminated
from the body. I would start at a quarter or half a dose and work up
slowly over a few days to the full dose. Drinking plenty of water,
resting your body and taking hot Epsom salt baths can help
mininise reactions.
Your low thyroid function would certainly be contributing to
your fatigue and malaise. You may find some useful info
from this recent article I wrote on natural thyroid solutions:
http://www-epsteinbarrvirus.com/blog/complications-of-mono/healingyourthyroid/
I hope you start to get some positive results soon.
Regards
Elizabeth
Hello,
I am a 49 y/o female who had mono at age 15. Since then, I have periodically had bouts with fatigue–sometimes severe. The heat makes it worse. For nearly 30 years I have had freaky neuro dysfunction. Until three years ago, it would only last a few minutes or a day at most.
Out of the blue, in 2007, I was hit with numbness/tingling and parts of my body not working right. I had cold or hot feelings in my head, buzzing sensations in my head and legs–I could go on and on. It moved around (like if you played with the breakers in your house switching off and on.) All blood work was normal. They sent me for an MRI suspecting MS. They found no lesions. I was subsequently diagnosed with neuropathy. After three months the symptoms stopped just like turning off a light switch.
I have exercised nearly everyday since I was 30 and I try to eat healthy–most of the time. I take vitamins A & D, E, C, as well as a calcium and magnesium supplement. I take no meds even when I do have pain. I limit alcohol and caffeine, and I quit smoking a year ago. I do have a very stressful job and it is extremely stressful from January to May.
For the past few months I have experienced extremely dry eyes, mouth, and even my lungs feel dry sometimes–yet my ears are greasy every morning. Also some days, I have an exremely difficult time with buttons and even bathing. No pain or swelling in hands, just really uncoordinated. It is not this way everyday though. On those days I can barely walk around the block like I’m 90. Most days I can walk a mile like nothing is wrong. On Friday my entire face went numb for an hour or so. Then my throat got numb and stayed that way the rest of the day. I have started having all over muscle weakness and fatigue again and all over feelings of “numbness” (like from the inside out) but if I touch the outside, I can feel just fine.
I am now having to get up at 4:30 to get to work at 8:30. Most days I am late now. I am thankful to have an understanding boss. Getting up this early, I am so exhausted by 7:30, many times I go to sleep w/o supper.
I have spent so much money on testing over the years and I still don’t really know what to do. I don’t believe in taking drugs and I have felt that way all of my adult life.
In the last few days, I have started keeping a journal recording everything I eat, what exercises I did, what the weather was like and how I felt. Maybe there will be some correlation. I am at a loss and desperate for relief. Any suggestions?
Hi Kai,
Thanks for your post. I’m sorry to hear you have been having such an awful time with your health. It must be very worrying for you.
It sounds like you are taking some excellent supplements plus eating and exercising well. I would also be adding a good high
potentcy B complex and some high dose omega 3 oils to optimise nerve and cell function. It is a good idea to start keeping
a diary of your symptoms. They may be related to your diet, environment or stress.
Stress may be the weak link which you need to focus on. Is there any way to can work closer to home or change jobs so there is less stress?
Alternativley doing daily meditation, visualization or deep breathing may help you cope better.
It would also be worth seeing a holistic practitioner who can assess you physically and rule out secondary conditions like sarcoidosis, neurological damage
and stealth infections like Chlamydia pneumonia or mycoplasma.
I hope you get some answers soon.
Elizabeth
.
At the age of 10, I developed type 1 diabetes immediately following a bout of mononucleosis caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Usually the cocksackievirus is implicated in type 1, but it doesn’t surprise me to see a general autoimmune disease link with the Epstein-Barr virus.
Hey elizabeth
well im 13 and very confused right now.
see i was diagnosed with a severe case of epstien barr syndrom
and according too the hospistal iva had it in my system for quit a while
and according too them i will continualy have side affects. and another case of it.
so since then i tire easily and i have severe headaches that sometimes affect my vision.
i dont know if there is anything i can do about those and also sometimes i get fevers for a good hour then they disapear?
also i sometimes get really bad breakouts on my face before i have a mono break out the doctor says this could be because of my mono?
Hi Lauren,
Sorry to hear you are ill with Epstein Barr. This is a latent virus that can return when you are run down or under stress. Most people however get over the initial infection
fully with no long term problems. The headache, fever and fatigue are common in Epstein Barr. The acne may just be your age or it may be worsened by a
hormonal imbalance caused by the virus. Fortunately there is a lot you can do with natural therapies to help your recovery.
Your priority is to get your immune system fighting off the virus with high dose vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin A. You will also need to repair your adrenal glands
and boost your energy with magnesium and the B complex.
A low carb, high protein diet with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and pure water is important. Some anti-inflammatory foods and anti-viral herbs will also help.
If your symptoms persist you may need to do some livercleansing in order to clear the virus from your system.
All these techniques are outlined in my e-book and have been used with good results by many patients who have had similar conditions.
With the e-book, you also get free email support for 30 days if you need further guidance on your individual concerns.
I hope this answers your questions. Elizabeth
I am a 42-year old woman that had mono at 17, it was a very severe case, so severe that I
almost hospitalized. I have struggled with dibilitateting fatigue ever since, somtimes I have
more energy than others. I find that eating more fruits, vegies, and whole grains and
drinking lots of water really help! My mobility has been affected by my MS; however, I’m
still able to work out at the gym! Lately I’ve been trying to work out on a regular basis, but
I come home most of the time, very fatigued. My question is: “Is there any kind of
supplement that I can take or foods I can eat to help give me more energy to last the
whole day through?” I feel better when I watch my diet and workout, but I’m ready for bed
when I get home, and I’ve got alot to do! I would also like to know if I can get it again,
since the virus stays in your system? If so, how can I avoid it?
Dawn
Hi Elizabeth. I’m so glad I found this blog. Anyway – I first had a nasty bout of mono when I was 16 years old. I was sick for a good 9 months till I was back to my old self. Had the rash, jaundice, fatigue, sore throat, swollen spleen, etc… Later that year I was also dx with IBS. When I was 17 I ended up with a case of pneumonia that took months to get rid of. After that I was ok for about 4 years at which time I developed severe mouth ulcers – 25 were able to be counted, severe muscle and joint pain – could barely function. I also developed very strange bumps all over my legs. They looked like bruises and were swollen – like someone had taken a baseball bat to my legs. Had on biopsied and I never was able to be diagnosed. This went on for about 2 months – barely graduated from college. Then I was ok again. I really didn’t have many problems after that until I had my daughter at age 33. I had a rough pregnancy with pre-eclampsia and was exhausted after having her – completely chalking it up to being a new mom. About a year after she was born, I was diagnosed once again with mono. This time wasn’t near as bad as the first. It is now 3 years later and I am still not right!! I’m always tired – literally could spend days in bed with and never feeling that I’ve slept enough. I’m always sick. I feel like I should wear a surgical mask with how sick I get. Doctors blame it on my kid being in daycare, and at first I did to, but now I’m having a hard time with that explanation. When I wake in the morning I have to stretch for about 5 -10 minutes before I even get out of bed or I hurt to bad to move!
So my main question is – do you automatically have EPV if you’ve been dx with mono? I’m having a hard time just finding a doctor that believes I’ve actually had mono twice!
Thank you!
Melissa
Hi Dawn,
Thanks for your post. I am sorry to hear you have been suffering
with fatigue. This symptom is the most common one that lingers
after mono. It sounds like you are eating properly. Many of my patients
get good results with their energy levels on the higher
protein diet outlined in my e-book
For fatigue, your priority should be to repair your adrenal glands with
magnesium, the B complex and vitamin C. The omega 3 oils like those
found in fish oils have also be shown in research trials to help fatigue.
CoQ10 is also useful to boost the energy supply in your cells.
If your fatigue continues despite the above advice, you may need to
do a liver cleanse. The liver is often sluggish or congested in cases
of chronic tiredness. Even just starting on the lemon juice in warm
water on rising would be a positive step.
The virus can relapse if you are run down or stressed so the above
advice should help.
I hope you get some good results.
Elizabeth
Hi Melissa,
Thank you for your post. It must be very frustrating for you getting sick all the time – especially when you have a young child.
Mono is usually caused by EBV (Epstein Barr virus), although sometimes it can be caused by other viruses like CMV
(cytomegalovirus). Your blood tests will determine the virus involved.
Once you have had mono, the Epstein Barr virus remains in your body for life. It can be triggered by stress, immune suppression
or other illnesses. Most people manage to keep it under control, however about 6% of infected people get relapses. If your
doctor does not believe you can get mono twice, then you may need to find a doctor who specialises in immune problems and
can advise you appropriately.
Fortunately there is a lot you can do with natural therapies to help your recovery. Your priority is to boost your immune system with
high dose vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin A and herbs. A low carb, high protein diet with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and
pure water is important. Some anti-inflammatory foods and anti-viral herbs will also help.
If your symptoms persist you may need to do some liver cleansing in order to clear the virus from your system.
All these techniques are outlined in my e-book and have been used with good results by many patients who have had similar conditions.
With the e-book, you also get free email support for 30 days if you need further guidance on your individual concerns.
I hope this answers your questions.
Kind Regards
Elizabeth
I had Mono when I was 29 and was sick for 9 months where they said to me it was only in my body the last 4 weeks. Now, 16 years later I am very sick again, worried about cancer and lymphomas. My neck, shoulder, under arm and ribs hurt. My collar bone is now swollen, all on the left side which is the side I carried the Mono on last time. My under arm throbs. They have done ultrasounds, blood tests, x-rays, etc. What is it???? I work two very stressful jobs, micro management everywhere and have a 3 1/2 year old ctive boy.
I just wish I knew which type of doctor to go to as I have had about 20-25 doctor appointments in 3 months.
Hi Regina,
It is possible your symptoms are due to a re-activation of the Epstein Barr virus that causes mono. It could also be a condition like fibromyalgia or CFS. I’m sure your medical tests would have picked up if it was a cancer or lympoma. I would be looking at finding an alternative doctor or naturopath who treats the whole body holistically. Nutrients like magnesium, B complex, fish oils, zinc and vitamin C can help with pain and inflammation. Epsom salt baths would also be good to relax your muscles and bring relief.
I’m sure your busy life is not helping your recovery. Is there any way to reduce your working hours or get help with your little boy? Adequate rest and quality sleep are essential regaining your health.
Elizabeth
Hi again Regina,
I suggest you do a search on the doctor’s list on : http://www.co-cure.org/Good-Doc.htm
These doctors are listed as they use holistic approaches to treating immune disorders
like mono, CFS, fibromyalgia etc.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Hello Elizabeth
I came across this site while researching my health conditions (desperate for answers)…not settling with the numerous medical explainations from doctors throughout the years…I KNOW there is more to my condition, something caused this and my hunch is mono and/or ebv. The past 10 years have been a living hell for me mentally and physically. I was a very healthy and active person my entire life until I came down with a bad bout of mono when I was 19 or 20 years old, I am now 32. Here are a few of my ailments: chronic fatigue, severe joint pain, tissue inflammation, redness, severe pain, swelling, stiffness and pain in my fingers, toes, (thought I had R.A. but tested negative) ulcerations and sometimes purple-black blisters under my fingers/toes that feel like severe burns, very bad mouth ulcers, esp. tongue with “geographic tongue” at times, left sided moderate-severe ulcerative colitis, etc. the list goes on and seems to get longer as the years progress. I’ve been to several doctors and hospitals and feel like a “mystery case” at times! The only explaination I have been given is that it is all extra-intestional manifestations of my ulcerative colitis. The funny thing is…I NEVER HAD any of this, including the UC, before I had contracted the mono virus. I am now a mother of 3 young children (thank God I was able to conceive and carry after all of this!) I seem to be at my worst the past year and I am now on many medications, most of which supress my immune system. I am scared to death of what the future hold for my health. Especially knowing that these meds can cause even more serious ailments in the future. My condition gets so bad at times that I cannot even move. Could all of this be related to mono? I feel as if I just opened pandora’s box, just discovered something that my doctors never considered. I am ALL FOR holistic approaches if there are any out there to help me. thank you!!
Hi Angie,
Thank you for your post. Sorry to hear you are struggling wth your health. You have had a rough time.
It does sound like the Epstein Barr virus that causes mono may have been a trigger for many of your symptoms.
Fortunately there is a lot you can do with natural therapies to boost your immunity, quell inflammation and
repair your adrenal glands which are most likely exhausted.
Your priority is to get your immune system boosted with high dose vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin A. You will also need
to repair your adrenal glands with magnesium and the B complex. Some gastrointestinal and liver cleansing should
also be considered.
A low carb, high protein diet with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and pure water is important. Some anti-inflammatory foods and
anti-viral herbs will also help. Stress management, graded exercise and support is also important.
All these techniques are outlined in my e-book and have been used with good results by many patients who have had similar conditions.
With the e-book, you also get free email support for 30 days if you need further guidance on your individual concerns.
I hope this answers your questions.
Kind Regards
Elizabeth Noble
Elizabeth,
My first symptom from mono was severe vertigo that turned into flu-like symptoms. I was diagnosed in March after 4 weeks or so of suffering. One of my major symptoms has been constant light headedness–I was better for a few months with the weakness, fatigue, etc, but always had the underlying “off-balance” light headed feeling. I had 2 episodes where my BP dropped and the cardiologist thought it sounded like neurocardiogenic syncope and prescribed atenolol (which I didn’t start because I was hoping it would go away when the mono resolved). 2 months ago my symptoms can back: extremely light headed, fatigue, weak, muscle weakness, achy joints, chest discomfort–I am so light headed that I can’t go out of my house because movement and noise exacerbate the symptom. I am on multi-vitamin, Vit D3, fish oil, a probiotic, and just began a high potency garlic/cinnamon all from a naturopathic doc. She also did a food sensitivity test which directed me to avoid dairy, gluten, eggs, and sugar among others. We are waiting on the results of a CDSA test, but the doc says she’s stumped. I don’t know where to go from here, I haven’t worked since March because of all this and am barely able to get through my last semester of grad school as a nurse practitioner. Could all of this be related to the mono? Fyi- head ct/mri normal, ekg and echo normal.
Thank you
Hi Kari,
I have had several mono patients who suffer from light-headedness and dizziness. It is
commonly due to an imbalance in the nervous system particularly if your adrenal glands are depleted.
I would recommend you keep on your supplements. You should be on some high dose magnesium
B vitamins and vitamin C.
It is also important to check if the dizziness is being worsened by low blood pressure, low blood sugar,
ear problems or anemia. Tests for these conditions can be run by your doctor. Some people find
chiropractic or osteopathy can help.
When you get light headed then try doing some deep breathing, drink a glass of water and
have a protein-rich snack. Some people say ginger can help.
Hope this helps.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth, Ihave posted several times before and had some more questions as
I have found out more information. I am trying to do a lot of supplements and even though my digestion and appetite have been poor I am trying to eat as healthy as possible. Just lately I had saliva testing showing gluten intolerance as well as a depressed immune system. Along with the reactivated mono. I feel overwhelmed with this whole thing. Lately I have been even more exhausted. I don’t want to accept that this is the way my life will be forever but I am not sure what else to do. I guess I am looking for some assurance that even with so many things going on there is still hope for recovery. I have worked with several naturopaths too. Do I just need to be more patient? I have felt bad for 5months but have just recently gotten the dx for the conditions I described above .
I appreciate any help. Thank you so much and happy holidays. Loti
Hi Lori,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you are still so tired. Fatigue is the most common symptom that lingers with mono. As long as you are eating well, taking your immune-boosting herbs and nutrients and resting your body then it may just be a matter of time.
I would keep working on your liver and gastrointestinal tract – I’m sure avoiding gluten will help. Your naturopaths should be able to monitor your adrenal health and address accordingly. Hang in there and just take a day a time!
Elizabeth
Hi
I am 39 and I have tested positive for EBV and mono. My fevers started in August and is still ongoing, in January. I get fevers and chills that last for about 5 days, then get a break for 2-3 weeks then again the fevers and chills start. This has been going on for 4 and 1/2 months. We have tested for many other things as well, lupus, rhuematoid arthitis, lyme’s, hepatitis, etc. I also did a CT to rule out lymphoma. Each time I have the fever I have an ESR of about 100-120 and C-Reactive Protein of about 155. Since I am not testing positive for anything else, it is being attributed to mono. However atypical the symptoms the doctors admit it is. I have read that the fevers should not last more than 4 months at the most. Do you think this is something else or just the mono and EBV. I was wondering if perhaps it is masking something else. It’s very exhausting and I’m so tired. I hope you have some insight.
Thanks a lot
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Sorry to hear you are suffering with fevers. Prolonged recurrent fever is usually due to an infection although in some cases can be caused by ulcerative colitis, Hodgkins disease, leukaemia, SLE or a drug side effect. It sounds like your doctors have tested you thoroughly. It is unusual for fever to last so long in mono but I have had other patients with the same problem. Fever is your body’s way of killing the virus so it should not be suppressed with medication. Fever will also make you feel very tired and lethargic. I would recommend you rest your body as much as possible, drink plenty of pure water and support your immune system and adrenal glands with some vitamin C, B complex, zinc and magnesium.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
I have had acne for about 3 years. I went to my naturopathic doctor. About 2 years ago and I have been on armour thyroid since I went and talked to her. About a year ago she started me on DHEA, isocort, seriphos. The acne has continued. About a month ago she did a blood test and I was positive for Epstein-barr. I started a low arginine/high lysine diet immediately. Well I am at the one month mark and I’m still breaking out all along my jawline, chest, and back. Is this a die-off reaction??? I read in your previous posts that a B complex and vitamin C are important. I have been taking a B complex for about a year and just started 3000mg od Vitamin C a day when I found out I had Epstein barr. I have also done a liver cleanse about 10 months ago. I just want to know if this is a die-off reaction and if so, how much longer can I expect it to last? I thought after a month of the diet my breakouts would basically be non-existent. Thank you for your help!
Hi Brandi,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you have been suffering with acne despite all your supplements and improved diet. It may be a die-off reaction as microbes are being killed and eliminated from your body. Make sure you are drinking lots of pure water and cleaning the skin well. I would give it another week or two and if the acne is not improved then add some vitamin A, fish oils and zinc to your regime. A dry skin brush which can be used to improve skin circulation and remove toxins may also help.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
My husband was detected EB virus after a long investigation. He had enlarged spleen with T Cell lymphoproliferative disorder. He used to have intermittent fever. He was on steroids with cyclosporin.
Suddenly it relapsed and went in Multi organ failure. Is it that EB Virus is fatal? What are the symptoms and causes? Is it hereditary? Or whether there was any negligence on our part in delaying the treatment? Immunity gradually falls due to the virus or the medicine’s side effects?
Hi Elizabeth, Wondering if EBV has any clinical inclination on hyperpigmentation on upperback, chest, neck with burning/”crawling”, tingling feeling post treatment with antibiotics for another skin issue. Any suggestions on any other reason why skin issues would arise effecting the pigment. Thank you for your help.
Hi Niraj,
Hyperpigmentation is not a typical symptom of EBV however I have seen several patients with it during an active EBV infection. I suspect it may be due to the virus adversely affecting liver function which can change skin tone. Antibiotics particularly minocycline can also cause skin discolouration during EBV. Other reasons for hyperpigmentation are use of the oral pill, pregnancy, hormonal changes, sun exposure and reactions to certain cosmetics or skin creams. I would recommend you focus on some liver cleansing to see if it helps.
Elizabeth
Hi, I stumbled across this page when searching for information regarding my daughter’s diagnosis with post viral syndrome. It was thought that she had RA, but after a year of tests her doctors have determined that she had a virus and now has post viral syndrome. She has never had mono. She has had extreme fatigue, joint pain, Reynauds Phenomenon (blue legs and hands) and severe constipation. She spent 6 months on high dose prednisone. While she has improved, she still has some joint pain and fatigue. She also has severe constipation while taking double doses of laxatives daily. She has tried taking magnesium and also fish oil. Neither seemed to help. I was just wondering if you have any suggestions for her.
Thanks!
Hi Wendy,
Post viral syndrome can occur after any virus including the common cold and flu, Epstein Barr, chicken pox and cytomegalovirus. Symptoms are typically ongoing fatigue and muscle and joint pain although other symptoms can occur. For your daughter I would focus on the health of her gastrointestinal tract. This is the forefront of a healthy immune system. It might be best to find a holistic doctor or naturopath who can guide your daughter through a gastrointestinal and liver cleanse. This entails doing a herbal anti-microbial cleanse followed by replenishing the healthy acidophillus and bifido bacteria. For the liver, lemon juice in warm water and plenty of pure water is essential. Magnesium should help with the constipation – maybe she needs to go at a higher dose in order to loosen the stools. For the joint pain I would keep her on some anti-inflammatory nutrients like the fish oil, zinc and vitamin C.
I hope this helps.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
I was diagnosed with mono back in Oct of 09′. The past year I have been having chronic muscle pain with slight weakness and fatigue which has affected my appetite (I lost 6lbs. and being 5’4″, 120lbs thats a lot). These symptoms started in May of last last year, a couple of months after I began to feel better from mono. The first few months that I had these symptoms, I also had a low-grade fever (never higher than 100) that was off and on for a couple of months. In June I had blood work done and everything was normal, but my B-12 levels were high, above 900. Let me just say that about eight years ago my ANA came back positive and was told I had Arthritis. I was retested earlier last year (10′) and found out that it wasn’t Arthritis, it was Raynauds. Since last summer, I’ve seen a Rhuematalogist who has come to the conclusion that I have Fibromyalgia, which I disagree with as does my primary dr. I have also had digestive problems since before I got mono, but recently have been dealing with acid reflux. My GI dr has ruled out any problems with my stomach, esophagus, etc. At the request of my Rhuematalogist, my GI ruled out Crohn’s diseases and has said that my digestive symptoms are related IBS. I have even been to a Cardiologist. My dr. believes I have inflammation in my body but can’t pin point a cause. Because of the fatigue I have been inactive and my diet hasn’t been the best, which is probably making things worse. I just had my annual physical and according to my lab work and everything else I’m a healthy 32 yr old. Since no one can figure out what is causing my symptoms, I’m trying to figure out what I can do to help me feel better. Last September I had to do a colon cleanse and after the procedure I felt great. I want to feel great again! I guess I was wondering if my digestive issues could be causing the inflammation/ muscle pain and fatigue? Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Andrea,
Thanks for your post. Sorry you have been suffering with chronic muscle pain, digestive problems and fatigue. I would focus on optimising your gastrointestinal tract function by doing a liver and colon cleanse followed by some probiotics. I would also be looking at adding high dose magnesium, B vitamins and vitamin C for your fatigue plus some anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, fish oils and zinc. It would be best if you can find a naturopath or holistic doctor who treats the body as a whole rather than a doctor who just looks for a specific diagnosis.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
I stumbled across your site this morning while doing some research on the Epstein-Barr Virus and Autoimmune Disease.
We have a family history of Autoimmune Disease starting with my Maternal Grampa (it might go back farther than him but I havent heard for sure), he has Myasthenia Gravis and found out the other evening that its possible that my Mother might have Fibromyalgia. But, she as far as I know hasnt been 100% diagnosed with that or Autoimmune Disease.
So, Here is my delima.. One of my daughters who is 14 years old popped Positive for the Epstein-Barr Virus in January of this year after having a Negative Monospot test. She caught it from someone at school that drank from her water bottle and didnt let my daughter know that she had Mono. The Peditrician had her taking a steriod for the first week for her sore throat and that got better, but she was complaining of constant headaches and extreme tiredness, so I was told to give her Motrin 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks cause of the headaches, which resulted in her bowles becoming very back up and she was given Polyethylene Glycol 3350 to take for 2 weeks 2x aday and then 1x aday after that. Which did help with that. SHe takes it now every so often as she feels she needs it. This being the 3rd month since she been diagnosed, she no longer has the pains in her abdomen/spleen area but still headaches and tiredness… NOW she is dealing with occasional itchiness to her upper thighs and lower abdomen area. Seems to bother her throughout the whole day and mostly evening time. The Dr gave her 2.5% Hydrocortisone Cream for it, she hasnt mentioned to much wether its working for it as she just started it 2 days ago. She also heavily complaining of muscle pains and joint pain, and when she walk her knee gives out on her and she stumbles only falling to the ground a couple times.
I do not want to start her on Mortin or Tylenol like she was taking before and cause her more bowel problems again, she does drink plenty of water specially since all this started.
I came across this website: http://www.evenbetterhealth.com/autoimmune-disease-causes.asp
and it says something about the Epstein Barr Virus and Autoimmune disease.. Should I be worried that she might have it and have her tested for the Autoimmune since on my side of the family it runs on?
She is also ADHD (more ADD, she isnt hyper at all) and was perscribed Concerta 56mg and she does not take it every day, mostly cause she is tired and forgets to take it. She started taking Concerta in May 2010 on the lower dose and slowely mooved up to the 56mg cause they stopped working all day.
I try all I can think of to make things stress free for her, make sure she gets plenty of sleep, drinks her water and watches how much she eats to overdo herself and back up her bowels.. Im stressed now and tired and worn out, I know its a long road to recovery for her but is there any suggestions on what I can do differently to help, should I have her tested for possible Autoimmune too?
Thanks,
Jennifer
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for your post. Sorry your daughter is not well. There is no harm in getting her tested for an auto-immune condition but I would personally focus first on balancing her immune system with some high dose vitamin C, zinc and fish oils. For her fatigue and headaches I would be adding some B vitamins and magnesium. The itchiness could be a sign her liver is still compromised after Epstein Barr. Doing some gentle liver cleansing with lemon juice in warm water plus a high vegetable and fruit diet would be beneficial. Finding a good naturopath or holistic doctor to guide you would be a good idea.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Hi Christy,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you have been suffering with arthritis and psoriasis. These conditions can result from an unbalanced immune system. I have heard good results with the use of Low Dose Naltrexone especially for immune conditions like fibromyalgia and CFS although I have not used it personally with my patients. Here is a link to a site where you can do some more reading on it:
http://www.lowdosenaltrexone.org/
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
I am 38. I was diagnosed with mono two years ago. I was hospitalized three months prior to my diagnosis of mono because my face and neck was swelling. I looked like a chipmunk storing nuts for the winter. The doctors thought it was an allergic reaction to amoxicillan or biaxin. I am an educator and was off work for over a month during my illness with mono. Since the mono, I have been extremely tired. I have extreme joint pain. The joint pain tends to be more focused in my neck, left arm, and left hand. Cold weather and storm systems definitely increase my pain. I have been to several different doctors including a rheumatologist. I have had negative ANA results, negative tests for RA. The main reason that my physician is concerned is because my SED rate is climbing. It is currently in the 60s. It has doubled in the last year. Recently my c reactive protein levels were tested. It is 5 times the normal value. An xray did indicate some arthritis in my left shoulder where the collar bone and shoulder blade meet. I have also had a chronic low grade fever. I must also mention that I am overweight. The first thing the doctors blame is my weight, but I know that it is something else. I was overweight before I had mono and didn’t feel like this. I am trying to lose weight. I am trying to exercise but my joint pain is so extreme it is almost impossible to exercise for very long at a time without being moved to tears. ANY suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Elizabeth,
I had a bad case of mono when I was 18 and a very swollen spleen. I am now 38 and have had 3 recurrent miscarriages and was just told that it could have something to do with an autoimmune disorder and that my body could be identifying the baby as a foreign object.
After reading more about autoimmune disorders, I was wondering if there is a chance that the mono virus that is dorment could be causing this to happen. Have you ever heard of this type of issue with other patients?
Thank you,
Casey
Hi Casey,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you have been having recurrent miscarriages. It may be possible that the mono virus has triggered some form of auto immune condition however this is rare. Most pregnant women have been exposed to the virus and do not suffer from recurrent miscarriages. I would recommend you work on balancing your immune system with a good liver and bowel detox, a fresh food diet and some added supplements like vitamin C, zinc and fish oils. Working with a good naturopath or wholistic doctor is important to monitor your condition and help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Elizabeth
Hi Marci,
Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear you have been struggling with your health for so long. Your symptoms and test results certainly point to inflammation in your body.
I would suggest you start on an alkaline diet based around plenty of fresh vegetables and low carb fruits with some quality protein at each meal. Eliminate sugars, grains and processed foods. Adding some magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, fish oils and enzymes may help. The anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, raw pineapple and paw paw may be beneficial.
If your symptoms persist you may need to do some liver cleansing in order to help your system heal. With your history it would be advisable to work alongside a naturopath or holistic doctor who can monitor your progress.
Best Wishes
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
My husband got mono a few years ago and although I never got tested for it I have had bad fatigue and weight loss for years. I have now been told that I have Sjogrens Syndrome SSb antibodies and a mildly positive ANA and I wonder is it related to mono? I would really like to try and reverse it as much as possible, as I would like to have a another baby. I am 33 now and have previously been diagnosed with PCOS but now they think it maybe Sjogrens instead. I find it very difficult to put on weight but would like to take some vitamins to improve my overall health.
Hope to hear from you soon,
Mel
Hi Mel,
Thank you for your post. Sorry to hear you have been struggling with Sjogrens Syndrome and fatigue. It could have been triggered by the Epstein Barr virus that causes mono.
Fortunately there is a lot you can do with natural therapies to reduce the levels of autoantibodies and to inhibit the inflammation. Your priority is to get onto some anti-inflammatory nutrients like
high dose vitamin C, zinc, and fish oils. Foods like turmeric, ginger and reishi mushroom are also anti-inflammatory.
A low carb, high protein diet with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and pure water is important. I also recommend you do a liver and bowel detoxification in order to reduce antigens and circulating antibodies. Taking digestive
enzymes like pancreatic concentrates and Betaine HCl will optimise your results.
I hope this helps.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
I was diagnosed as being in the ‘post acute stage of EBV’ back in Feb, and since then have had horrible tingles all over my legs and hands, always get colds and illnesses, dizziness etc…the tingling really is the worse though. I get tremors and twitches too, but they aren’t too frequent.
I’m a 21 year old student as well, which means it can be quite hard at times to lead a healthy lifestyle (due to living with 4 other 21 y/o guys!)
However, I was just wondering if you can recommend anything, I’m at a loss and the doctors don’t believe me…
Stu
Hi Stu,
Sorry to hear you are suffering with tingling, dizziness, tremors and low immunity after your bout of EBV. The virus can affect the nerves to cause these symptoms. I would try a course of B vitamins and magnesium to see if they help your neurological symptoms. A check up with a chiropractor or osteopath would be a good idea too. For your recurrent colds, look at a fresh food diet, plenty of rest and some immune boosting supplements like vitamin C, zinc and herbs like olive leaf extract.
I hope these ideas get you started.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
My husband contracted the EB Virus last month as he was immuno compromised due to drugs like Cytoxan which he was taking to treat a condition called Wegner’s. The EB virus has caused severe Hepatitis and also T Cell proliferation. He is undergoing Chemotherapy for the destruction of the T Cells but is also on some anti viral medications and antibiotics to help with his fevers. Is there anything I can add to his diet to help with the elevated liver enzymes and Bilirubin. Please help? I will have him follow your remedies on a long term basis once he is off these drugs. But what can I do for now?
Thanks,
DS