Epstein-Barr Virus (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)

SYMPTOMS - Recurrent upper-respiratory tract infections, exhaustion, extreme fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, achy joints and muscles, memory loss, low-grade fevers, headaches, poor concentration, night sweats, irritability, and deep depression. Because the symptoms resemble flu and other viral symptoms, EBV is not always diagnosed correcctly. In fact, it is frequently misdiagnosed as hypochondria, depression, or psychosomatic illness.

CAUSES - Chronic fatigue syndrome is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This condition has become widespread in America. The CDC in Atlanta estimates that tens of thousands of people are infected with it. Yet they are unaware of it, since symptoms are frequently not prominent.
This virus is also the cause of infectious mononucleosis. When mononucleosis occurs, the person becomes very ill for two to four weeks or longer if the diet is not corrected. (See Mononucleosis - 554).

EBV is a type of herpes virus, and is related to the viruses that cause genital herpes and shingles.

Keep in mind that chronic fatigue syndrome can also be caused by certain other factors: candida albicans (yeast infection), anemia, chronic mercury poisoning from dental amalgam tooth fillings, hypoglycemia, insomia, and hypothyroidism. (See related articles of all of the above mentioned.)

Once EBV is contracted, it always remain in the body. Fortunately, more people develop antibodies to it. The problem occurs when they become rundown and overworked - and then the dormant EBV strikes. It is more likely to reveal its presence when other diseases are also present, such as arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, cancer, or AIDS.

EBV causes the body to overreact, resulting in a burnout of the immune system.

Epstein-Barr virus is very contagious, and can be transmitted by close contact, kissing, sharing food, coughing, and rough sex.

Blood tests for antibodies against candida albicans and EBV are available for specific diagnosis. Yet the fact remains that EBV symptoms are similar to those of many infections, anemia, parasites, endocrine diseases, and AIDS.

NATURAL REMEDIES:

1. Antibiotics do not help, since EBV is a virus. Recovery takes time, rest and good nutrition. Drink lots of water, at least 8 glasses a day. Regularity in bowel movements is essential. Add fiber to the diet. Cleansing enemas should be used occasionally.

2. It is vital that you get plenty of rest. Throughout the day, take relaxation breaks. If possible, try to lay down and rest before meals.

3. Exercise each day is envigorating. Keep taking a little more. Outdoors exercise is best. Avoid overexertion, but also avoid being too sedentary. You will not recover by remaining in bed!

4. Use your energy carefully. Do not overdo and then collapse for a time. You may have exhausted adrenal glands.

5. Your problem may be partly or wholly caused by the presription you are taking.

DIET:

1. Remove from the diet all junk foods, processed foods, fried foods, stimulants (coffee, tea, soft drinks, sugar), and white flour products (bread, spaghetti, etc.).

2. It is said that 60 percent of those with EBV also have candida (see Candidiasis); therefore it is best to eat some form of acidophilus. Eliminate sugar, alcohol, mushrooms, all fungi, molds, yeast, fermented foods such as sauerkraut, soy sauce, dry roasted nuts, potato chips, soda pop, bacon, pork, lunch meats, and all types of cheese.

3. Eat some brand of "greens" tablets. Chlorophyll is vital to proper diet and healing. Make green drinks from whizzed up greens and pineapple juice.

4. Take 2,000 mg vitamine C, twice a day, and 400 mg magnesium daily.

OTHER:

1. Take no aspirin, since it may induce Reye's Syndrome (see article)
in children.

2. Helpful herbs include red clover, to cleanse the blood; echinacea, to help the glands; garlic, as an antibiotic; and saffron, to help reduce pain.

3. Epstein-Barr can be combated with massive doses of vitamine C, immediately followed by exercise.

For more natural remedies see Emotional Fatigue, and Chronic Fatigue.
Similar symptoms: see Lyme Desease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Neurasthenia.

ENCOURAGEMENT:

The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ cries out continually for a deeper draught. How thankful we can be for His love and care over us. Hebrews 10:19-20.