Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis,
sometimes referred to a "mono," is an acute infectious,
viral disease usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus
or cytomegalovirus, both of which belong to the herpes
group. Mono is often also referred to as "sleeping sickness,"
or "kissing sickness," since it is very contagious and
may be transmitted by kissing, and its primary symptom
is severe tiredness. It affects the lymph tissue, the
respiratory system, and sometimes other organs such
as the liver, spleen, and, rarely, the heart and kidneys,
and presents with an increase of white abnormal blood
cells and development of persistent antibodies to the
Epstein-Barr virus and short-lived antibodies to beef,
horse, and sheep red blood cells.
Symptoms
of mono occur four to seven weeks after exposure and
include severe fatigue, headache, alternating chills
and a high fever, sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes,
especially in the neck. Symptoms can vary and be confusing,
because the mono viruses can affect different organs
such as the spleen, liver, eyelids, and sometimes the
heart. Ten percent of people with mono also develop
rashes and/or darkened bruises in the mouth.
Mono
typically occurs between the ages of 14 –18, and only
in people who have never before had antibodies to the
viruses that cause it.
What
To Consider
Mono's symptoms are very similar to the flu must be
ruled out. Almost all cases improve without drugs within
four to six weeks. Though antibiotics are often prescribed
for mono, in actuality they are of little use unless
there is an associated bacterial infection. In addition,
the antibiotic ampicillin will often make mono worse
and should be avoided. Also avoid aspirin as it can
create further complications in rare cases.
Proper
treatment in the early stages of mono must emphasize
appropriate bed rest. If there is enlargement of the
spleen or liver, the rest may need to be prolonged and
strenuous exercise must be avoided until these organs
return to normal size.
Many
mono patients suffer from ongoing fatigue, depression,
and varied symptoms for months to follow, but those
on natural treatments seem to avoid this pitfall or
recover from these recurrences more quickly.
Self-Care
Tips
Diet
Drink plenty of pure water and avoid excessive animal
proteins. Also eat four to six smaller meals throughout
the day and avoid overeating at each meal. For best
results, eat as many raw foods as possible, especially
sprouts, seeds, and nuts. Avoid processed foods, soft
drinks, sugar, caffeine, white flour products, and fried
foods.
Before
retiring, take several bites of complex carbohydrate
foods (crackers, potatoes, pasta, etc.) along with several
bites of a non-animal protein (nut butter, yogurt, cheese,
seeds, etc.) along with a large glass of pure water
or warm herbal tea.
Nutritional
Supplementation
Useful nutrients include vitamin C, free-form amino
acids (1/4-1/2 teaspoon ten minutes before meals, three
to four times daily), vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin
B complex, acidophilus, glandulars of organs involved
(liver, spleen and/or lymph/thymus), chlorophyll, selenium,
and a multivitamin/mineral supplement
Herbs
Combine the tinctures of myrrh, echinacea,
wormwood, cleavers, and calendula in equal parts and
take 1/2 teaspoon of this mixture four times a day.
Homeopathy
Useful homeopathic remedies include Belladonna,
Merc iod., and Phytolacca.
Hydrotherapy
Contrast hydrotherapy of alternating hot and
cold baths of packs applied two to five times a week
can boost immune function.
Juice
Therapy
Combine the juices of carrot, beet, tomato,
green pepper, garlic, and onion. Wheat grass juice or
other fresh green juices can also be helpful.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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