The mono blog

During glandular fever treatment, when the immune system is under stress, secondary conditions like ear infections can develop. Glandular fever and ear infections are particularly common in children.

The majority of infections in the ears are believed to be viral. About 22% are bacterial, most commonly caused by bacteria like Streptococcus pneumonia and Haemophilus influenzae.

The diagnosis of an infection in the ear is based on ear pain associated with fever. The ear drum appears red and bulging and the patient feels irritable and restless. In younger children the pain can be so intense as to make them scream and cry.

With secondary infections a responsible doctor may advise you to wait at least a couple of days, using pain killers if necessary to dull the pain. This will determine if an antibiotic is really needed. If antibiotics are prescribed during a bout of glandular fever and ear infections then be aware that a nasty side effect can be a skin rash. A skin rash can vary from mild and transient to an itchy, painful rash that lasts weeks.

Here’s some of the treatments I recommend to my patients with a history of glandular fever and ear infections.

• Essential oils
  Warm a teaspoon of vegetable oil like olive oil, and add to it 3 drops of tea tree and 2 drops of lavender. Soak a piece of cotton wool in this and use to plug the ear.
• Garlic
  Garlic is great for glandular fever and ear infections. Some of my elderly patients swear by peeling a clove of garlic, wrapping it in gauze and placing it in the affected ear overnight. You can put some olive oil in the ear first to prevent any skin irritation. You can also drip some warmed garlic oil or liquid garlic extract in the ear every 2-3 hours. These remedies should not be used if the ear drum is perforated.
• Improve diet
  An imbalanced diet with too much refined food causes an accumulation of toxins and a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. For glandular fever and ear infections it is important to base the diet around fresh fruit and vegetables, quality proteins, natural oils and whole grains.
• Antibacterial herbs like olive leaf, echinacea and goldenseal can help reduce the infection of both glandular fever and ear infections.
• Hot compresses, heat bags or hot water bottles on the affected ear can ease ear pain.
• Drink plenty of fluids
  The very action of swallowing helps the ear tubes to open and drain, so drinking lots of fluids will help.
• Immune boosting nutrients like Vitamin A, C, E and zinc are important in treating glandular fever and ear infections.

For further information on the natural treatment of glandular fever and ear infections please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. The e-book comes with 30 days of personal email support if further guidance is required.

Tags: glandular fever ear, glandular fever ear infections, glandular fever ears

EBV can suppress the immune system so secondary infections like sinusitis can take hold. Fortunately Epstein Barr virus and sinus infections (sinusitis) respond well to natural therapies. Here’s some natural treatments that I recommend for my patients with Epstein Barr virus and sinus infections:

• Essential oils. When you have an infection in the sinuses, the use of essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, thyme and pine can bring relief. A few drops can be added to a steam inhalation or you can blend one of them in a teaspoon of vegetable oil and massage over your nose, forehead, neck and cheeks.
• Bromelain – an enzyme derived from pineapple, has been shown in studies to relieve inflammation and improve sinusitis symptoms.
• Herbs like echinacea, goldenseal, garlic, fenugreek, horseradish, myrrh, Wild Indigo and Usnea barbata have been particularly useful in treating both Epstein Barr virus and sinus infections.
• Homeopathic remedies for acute sinusitis include Arsenicum album, Kalium bichromium, Nux vomica, and Mercurius iodatas.
• Nasal irrigation or rinses with a saline solution can be helpful in loosening nasal secretions, improving drainage and allowing you to breathe more easily. You can buy nasal irrigation kits or the Indian Neti pot for nasal rinses from a good chemist . Spray saline into each nostril whilst closing off the other nostril and inhaling.
• Hot compresses can bring welcome relief from the pain of sinusitis. Just use a heated wheat bag, hot water bottle or even a washer soaked in hot water, and place over your sinuses.
• Vaporizers or humidifiers can also bring relief by keeping the room around you slightly humid, and making breathing more comfortable.
• Drinking plenty of pure water will also prevent mucous from congesting and blocking the nasal passages. This is an important step in the treatment of both Epstein Barr virus and sinus infections.
• Zinc, Vitamin C and Vitamin A or beta-carotene are natural antioxidants which have a place to play in preventing chronic inflammation of the sinuses and in boosting immunity. These nutrients are essential for an effective Epstein Barr virus and sinus infections treatment plan.

For further information on the natural treatment of Epstein Barr virus and sinus infections please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. The e-book comes with 30 days of personal email support if further guidance is required.

Tags: EBV sinus, EBV sinusitis, Epstein Barr Virus Sinus Infections, Epstein Barr Virus Sinusitis

During glandular fever treatment, when the immune system is under stress, secondary conditions like urinary tract infections can develop.

Unlike most respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, urinary tract infections are usually caused by a bacteria – typically Escherihia coli (E.coli). The cause of the infection is usually contamination of the vagina or urethra with faeces from the bowel. From there these microbes can travel to the rest of the urinary tract and cause infection.

Apart from immune suppression, other triggers for UTIs can include irritation of the urinary tract from tight clothing, a diaphragm, spermicides, sex, bubble baths, chlorinated pools or even eating foods like spices, coffee, alcohol, citrus, chocolate and bananas.

UTI symptoms can include pain on urination, blood or pus in urine, urgency to urinate, fever and malaise. Some patients find that their urine is cloudy and smells very strong. During glandular fever treatment some symptoms like fever, malaise and fatigue can seem similar to those seen during a UTI.

Here’s some steps I recommend my patients with UTIs follow. These steps can be incorporated safely into a glandular fever treatment plan.

• Drink lots of water and pure cranberry juice. Cranberry juice can stop E.coli from adhering to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract. It is also available in a capsule form and can be even taken as a preventative if you are prone to urinary tract infections.
•  Take an immune boosting supplement with vitamin C. Ascorbic acid, the free form of vitamin C, is a powerful urinary tract bactericide. By increasing the acidity of the urine, urinary tract infections can be curtailed. Vitamin C is also an essential part of glandular fever treatment
•  Eat lots of garlic and parsley which act as antibacterials and diuretics. These foods are also good for glandular fever treatment.
•  If after a few the UTI has not improved, then antibiotics could be considered. It is worthwhile getting a urine sample tested to confirm there is a bacterial infection. During glandular fever treatment, be aware that antibiotics can sometimes trigger a skin rash. 
•  Do not delay emptying the bladder – you need to urinate every two to three hours, and always after intercourse.
•  For women, always wipe yourself from front to back after urination or emptying your bowels.
•  Wear cotton underwear and avoid pantihose.
•  If prone to infections consume lots of natural diuretics like celery, parsley, watermelon, dandelion tea, vegetable juices and salads.
•  Herbs like echinacea and olive leaf are good preventatives. These are also great immune boosters for glandular fever treatment.

There is a lot that natural therapies can offer for the prevention and treatment of UTIs. For further information on natural glandular fever treatment and how to avoid secondary conditions like urinary tract infections please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Tags: glandular fever treatment, Glandular fever Urinary Tract Infection, glandular fever UTI

Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics for glandular fever will not help kill the Epstein Barr virus. They are only effective against bacteria. The only reason why antibiotics for glandular fever are prescribed is if there is a serious secondary bacterial infection like strep throat, bronchitis or pneumonia.

Antibiotics for glandular fever can result in nasty side effects including:

A skin rash
Antibiotics during Epstein Barr virus typically cause a skin rash that can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of weeks. The skin rash can be mild or red, itchy, raised or painful.

Gastrointestinal disturbances
Antibiotics, particularly the broad spectrum ones like tetracycline and amoxycillin, kill off all the bacteria in your system – the good and the bad. The human gastrointestinal tract is filled with millions of different bacteria, including healthy ones like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidus. These healthy bacteria help the body digest food and produce B vitamins and metabolites essential for good health.

When all good and bad bacteria are removed when antibiotics for glandular fever are given, then the bad bugs can gain a foothold causing bloating, gas, diarrhoea and abdominal distention. There is also evidence to suggest that disturbances of the intestinal flora can contribute longer term to problems like irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis and bowel cancer.

Thrush and fungal infections
One of the common bad bugs to recolonise the gut after antibiotics for glandular fever are prescribed is Candida. This yeast can turn into a fungal form, and damage the gut wall causing a leaky or porous gut.  This is called “Leaky gut syndrome”. Candida and its waste products can then travel into the blood stream and set up infections elsewhere in the body.

Vaginal thrush is one of the more likely candida infections seen when antibiotics for glandular fever are taken. It causes a curd like vaginal discharge and itchiness in females. Oral thrush can be seen as white patches in the mouth or throat. Skin infections like tinea and athletes foot are also caused by Candida.

Allergies
Some antibiotics, especially the sulphonamides, can cause allergic reactions like rash, fever and diarrhoea. As discussed earlier a skin rash is the typical reaction when antibiotics for glandular fever are given.

Lowered immunity
Patients who are on antibiotics for glandular fever frequently or for prolonged periods of time, can be putting their immune system under pressure. The gastrointestinal tract is the forefront of our immunity. If it has a microbial imbalance or is leaking toxins into the blood stream then the immune system suffers. Although the theory is still controversial, many practitioners believe that chronic overgrowth of yeast due to the overuse of antibiotics may trigger chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and further immune dysfunction.

Growth problems in children
Some antibiotics like the tetracyclines can damage the growing teeth and bones of the foetus and young children. Tetracyclines are absorbed by bones and teeth causing pitting, yellow discolouration and an increased risk of dental cavities if they are taken for a long period.

Conclusion
Antibiotics for glandular fever should not be prescribed unless a serious secondary bacterial infection has developed.  Side effects of taking antibiotics for glandular fever  include a skin rash, gastrointestinal disturbances, thrush and lowered immunity. For further information on alternative treatments for glandular fever please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Tags: antibiotics Epstein Barr, Antibiotics For Glandular Fever, antibiotics glandular fever

The symptoms of mononucleosis and strep throat can be very similar. It is important that you get a diagnosis from your doctor as the treatment is different. In cases of streptococci, the infection may warrant the use of antibiotics. On the other hand, mono is caused by the Epstein Barr virus so antibiotics will not be effective.

Symptoms of a streptococci infection typically include;

• Redness and swelling in throat
• Pain in the throat
• A yellow discharge on the tonsils.
• Coated tongue
• Fever
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in front of the neck
• Headaches and malaise
• Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting – particularly in children
• Red rash with small spots under the arms or in the skin creases – often in children

As a general rule, if you have a prominent cough or nasal symptoms, you are more likely to have a viral throat infection like mono, rather than a streptococci throat.

Since symptoms of mononucleosis and strep throat can overlap, it may be hard for a doctor to determine which one you have. If there is some uncertainty, the doctor can do a rapid strep test. This only takes a few minutes to do and can detect up to 90% of streptococci throats. It involves the doctor using a long cotton swab to take some material from the back of your throat. If this is negative but a doctor thinks it may still be a bacterial infection, then they can do a throat swab which is then cultured in a laboratory. Results are available in 24 – 48 hours.

Blood tests like the mono spot test and Epstein Barr antibody tests can confirm if you have mono and in what stage of the illness you are at (initial, recuperating, chronic or relapsing).

If a streptococci infection is diagnosed your doctor will prescribe a 10 day course of antibiotics – usually penicillin or amoxicillin. If you do have streptococci infection, then your symptoms should subside within 2-3 days of taking antibiotics. Even though you may feel better it is important that you finish the whole course of antibiotics as prescribed. Do not return to work or school until you have taken antibiotics for 24 hours and symptoms have subsided.

Mononucleosis and strep throat are both contagious. Streptococci is most common in late autumn, winter and early spring. Both mononucleosis and strep throat are spread by person to person contact through nasal secretions or saliva. If someone you have contact with has mononucleosis and strep throat, then wash your hands well, avoid sharing cups or eating utensils and keep toothbrushes separate. You normally come down with streptococci within 2 – 5 days of contacting it. Mono can take up to several weeks to incubate.

Supporting your immune system with natural therapies will help to shorten the duration of both mononucleosis and strep throat. Here’s some treatments that can help:

• Antibacterial herbs like olive leaf, thyme, sage, myrrh, garlic and wild indigo should be part of your mononucleosis and strep throat treatment protocol.
• Vitamins A and C can help too.
• Zinc taken in a tablet or lozenge form which can be sucked or chewed on has been found to be particularly helpful in soothing the throat in cases of mononucleosis and strep throat
• Some patients attest to the effectiveness of colloidal silver for treatment of these infections.
• You need to get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids and avoid using your voice too much.
• Gargling with warm, salty water and sucking on sugar-free lozenges can ease discomfort.
• Gently massaging your throat with a menthol-based balm like tiger balm or vicks vapour rub can bring some relief. Some patients like to place a warmed heat bag around their neck to ease any pain.

If you have sore throat symptoms, your first step is to get a diagnosis to see whether it is a virus like mono or a bacteria like streptococci. Fortunately natural therapies have a lot to offer both mononucleosis and strep throat. For further information on the natural treatment of mononucleosis and strep throat please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Tags: mono strep throat, mono streptococci, mononucleosis strep throat

Chronic Epstein Barr virus can reduce immunity so secondary bacterial infections can take hold. Infections with organisms like Staph, Strep, Escherihia coli, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma and Rickettsia can result and may need antibiotics to treat.

Although many bacteria like chlamydia and mycoplasma are common in the environment, they are usually non-invasive. If you have a weak immune system due to chronic Epstein Barr virus, then these organisms can enter your cells causing a persistent, low grade infection which can last for months or years.

If you are diagnosed with one of these infections you will probably need to take an antibiotic for at least a week or two. Chronic, deep seated infections may need several months of antibiotic treatment.
Check with your doctor about the safety of taking antibiotics with chronic Epstein Barr virus. Sometimes the combination of the active virus with antibiotics can trigger skin irritation and rashes.

If you have to take antibiotics during chronic Epstein Barr virus then there are steps you can take to support your immunity and minimise side effects:

• Firstly take some probiotics like acidophilus and bifido bacteria as a powder or capsule during and after your antibiotic course to help maintain a healthy bacterial balance in your gastrointestinal tract.
• Take an immune-boosting supplement with vitamin C and zinc. Other immune tonics like Echinacea, garlic or Olive Leaf Extract can be beneficial.
• Eat a low carbohydrate, sugar-free diet which is high in quality protein and fresh fruit and vegetables. This diet is also a good anti-inflammatory diet for chronic Epstein Barr virus.
• Get adequate rest and sleep, minimise stress and exercise regularly to keep your immune system in tip top condition.
• Drink plenty of pure water and fluids.
• Complete the whole antibiotic course as instructed. Even if you are feeling better finish the whole course. Otherwise some bacteria may remain to re-infect you. Because they have been exposed to the antibiotic, these remaining bacteria may have developed a resistance and will be harder to kill next time. What isn’t killed becomes stronger.
• Do not skip antibiotic doses
• Do not save any antibiotics for the next time you get sick

If your chronic Epstein Barr virus has resulted in a secondary bacterial infection then talking with your doctor about antibiotics is important. If you need to take antibiotics then please ensure you eat well and take the right nutrients to ensure side effects are minimised. For further information on the natural treatments for chronic Epstein Barr virus please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Tags: chronic EBV, chronic epstein barr, chronic Epstein Barr virus, chronic Epstein Barr virus antibiotics, EBV antibiotics

Scientists at the University of Michigan Medical School have found a molecular link between the Epstein Barr virus and cancer. EBV is associated with many human cancers, including Burkitt’s lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, Hodgkin’s disease and invasive breast cancer.

Epstein Barr virus and cancer are linked as the virus has been shown to alter the function of a cellular protein that normally suppresses the movement of malignant cells. When this natural brake on cell migration is disabled by the virus, cancerous breast and lymphatic cells are free to metastasize, or spread. “This is the first evidence of a human virus associated with the development of cancerous tumors targeting a cellular protein to promote the migration of malignant cells,” says Erle S. Robertson, who directed the study.

Even though EBV is endemic in humans, infecting over 90% of adults, Robertson emphasizes that most cells infected by the virus may never become malignant. Additional genetic or environmental factors are required to trigger the development of Epstein Barr virus and cancer.

Although there are risk factors like genetics and age we can’t change, it makes sense to act on the things we can do to reduce the risk of cancers. For example lifestyle factors like being overweight, lack of physical activity, drinking excess alcohol, smoking and not getting adequate vitamin D have all been implicated in the development of cancer.

On the other hand, maintaining a healthy weight, being active, keeping to just one drink a day and eating a fresh food diet rich in folate (the B vitamin found in spinach and broccoli) may reduce the link between Epstein Barr virus and cancer. In animal studies adequate vitamin D helps cells divide normally and decreases cancer cell growth. Some human studies suggest that people have less breast cancer and other cancers when they have high levels of vitamin D, but more research is needed to confirm this link.

The best advice I can give to minimise the progression of Epstein Barr virus and cancer is to follow a healthy lifestyle, maintain a healthy weight and keep active. For further information on Epstein Barr virus and cancer please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.

Tags: EBV cancer, Epstein Barr cancer, Epstein Barr virus and cancer, Epstein Barr virus cancer

Many patients question me on the link between Epstein Barr virus and Multiple Sclerosis or MS. Here’s an interesting article with some of the facts from the Mercola.com web site…

German researchers have demonstrated that there may be an association between the Epstein Barr virus (EBV) reactivation and disease activity in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients over time.

• 108 MS patients and 163 controls were assessed for the prevalence of antibodies against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, EBV, and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
• In contrast to the control populations, antibodies against EBV were present in 100% of MS patients.
• There was no significant differences between the groups for the other viruses.
• 19 of the MS patients were then followed monthly for 1 year, measuring active viral replication and it was noted that viral reactivation was seen in 72.7% of patients with exacerbations of their MS symptoms.

The authors suggest that Epstein Barr virus might play an indirect role in MS as an activator of the underlying disease process. This could therefore, have some clinical significance in the treatment of this difficult condition.

Neurology July 25, 2000; 55:178-84

For further information on how to minimise the risk of Epstein Barr virus and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) developing please refer to Mercola.com or Elizabeth Noble’s e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures”.

Tags: Epstein Barr MS, Epstein Barr multiple sclerosis, Epstein Barr virus MS, Epstein Barr Virus Multiple Sclerosis

The Epstein Barr virus that causes mononucleosis or glandular fever can infect the liver to cause EBV hepatitis. The liver becomes inflamed, swollen and painful. Symptoms like nausea, fatigue, jaundice, headache, abdominal discomfort and malaise are typical.

Fortunately the liver has an amazing ability to regenerate itself, even after hepatitis hits. When provided with the right foods, herbs and nutrients, the liver can heal itself and give you back your health and life. Lets look at some of the most important foods in the EBV hepatitis diet.

The corner stone of an effective healing diet is an abundance of fresh salads, vegetables and fruit. These foods are rich in enzymes and antioxidants to help heal and regenerate a damaged liver. Juicing your fruits and vegetables can accelerate the healing process.

Secondly the addition of good quality protein foods like fish, free range chicken, legumes and raw nuts and seeds can boost your immune system and repair damaged liver cells. Although excess fats are to be avoided, the addition of the healthy omega 3 fats like those found in deep sea fish and flax seed oil can repair damaged cell membranes.

The use of healing herbs and nutrients in the EBV hepatitis diet can help repair a damaged liver. Popular herbs include milk thistle, artichoke and gotu kola. Essential nutrients include vitamin C, zinc, vitamin E and the B complex.

Lastly there are foods which need to be avoided on the EBV hepatitis diet. These include the more obvious liver-toxic foods like alcohol, coffee, preservatives, additives, trans fatty acids and highly processed foods. Too much refined carbohydrate like that found in sugar, breads, cereals, rice and pasta, can trigger inflammation and hinder healing. For this reason it is best to minimise their intake. Whole grains in small amounts are usually tolerated on the EBV hepatitis diet.

The specific foods, herbs and supplements and their dosages are discussed in detail in a comprehensive e-book called “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. All the recommended foods, herbs and nutrients on the diet are affordable and readily available from your local grocery and health food stores.

Elizabeth Noble is a qualified naturopath and medical researcher who has used the principles of natural healing with great success in her Epstein Barr patients. For further information on the EBV hepatitis diet please refer to Elizabeth’s e-book.

Tags: EBV hepatitis, EBV hepatitis diet, Epstein Barr hepatitis, Epstein Barr hepatitis diet

Mono liver treatment is an essential step in making a full and complete recovery from mononucleosis. The liver plays an important role in regulating immunological activity in the body.

Herbal medicine using specific plants targeted at liver function is proving very helpful in treating mononucleosis. Here’s some of the most effective herbs being used:

Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale radix) contains a bitter substance which stimulates liver and kidney secretions and aids digestion. Dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale folia) has anti-viral activity. It helps to expel uric acid and heavy metals from body tissues.

Milk thistle (Carduus marianus) restores liver function and protects liver cells from further damage.

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is a powerful detoxifier which stimulates liver cell regeneration.

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) has been demonstrated to provide immune support during mono liver treatment. It has anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial action and stimulates the immune system to fight infection.

Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) is another powerful anti-viral. It inhibits multiplication of viruses by blocking the receptor sites on the cell membrane. This prevents the virus from invading the cells.

Cleavers (Galium aparine) is the herb of choice for cleansing the lymphatic system. It corrects the body’s inability to break down normal catabolic wastes. Improving lymphatic circulation is an important step in treating mononucleosis.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) can also help inflamed, enlarged lymph nodes. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial.

A holistic approach to mono liver treatment should also include a wholefood diet, graded exercise, supportive nutrients and stress management. For further information on these mono liver treatments please refer to the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble. This comprehensive e-book comes with 30 days personal email support for advice on unique concerns.

Tags: mono liver, mono liver treatment, mononucleosis liver, mononucleosis liver treatment