Chronic Fatigue can be a sign of the Epstein Barr Syndrome
The Epstein Barr Syndrome virus comes from the herpes family. Most people will become infected with EBV at some time during their adult life.
Epstein Barr Syndrome, or mononucleosis, is a viral disease that affects 95% percent of adults between the ages of 35 and 40 who live in the United States.
The disease may be spread by coming into contact with those who are infected and is passed by kissing, using common drinking utensils, toothbrushes or coming into close proximity with the moisture of the mouth. The incubation period can be from seven to fourteen days in children, while in adults it may take thirty to forty days to appear. It is thought to be carried by infectious saliva.
Those who become infected can experience chronic fatigue. They may also exhibit a sore throat that lasts two weeks or more, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, a persistent fever, and general feeling of malaise.
There is a danger in some situations that the disease can lead to lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, both of which are types of cancer.
Epstein Barr Syndrome can remain dormant in the body for the rest of the person's life, although the symptoms may disappear after two months.
Doctors are still unsure how to treat the initial stages of the disease since it is a viral infection and viruses do not respond to antibiotics.
Physicians may prescribe extensive bed rest for two months and drinking of plenty of fluids. In severe cases the doctor may intervene by prescribing corticosteroid drugs to reduce swelling. Due to the fact that this virus often leads to an enlarged spleen, the patient will also be advised to avoid contact sports or pushing and lifting, which could cause the sudden rupture of the spleen.
Epstein Barr Syndrome should be suspected if you experience the major symptom of chronic fatigue. It is best to see your doctor so that he can confirm the presence of the disease by administering a blood test and then beginning immediate observation during the period of bed rest.