Re: Epstein Barr Virus

Posted By CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS on March 02, 1999 at 18:20:12:

In Reply to: Epstein Barr Virus posted by Maureen on March 02, 1999 at 12:57:34:






I was diagnosed with Epstein Barr in July and have been feeling the usual symptoms --
constanct fatigue, joint ache etc.  I have also had more than your usual amount of colds,
upper respitory infections etc. this winter.  Two weeks ago I had an upper respitory infection and
the doctor suggested I have my white blood cell count checked and it was down to 3.5.  It has since increased to
5.5.  I don't really understand that because I read that it should INCREASE when you are sick because your body
is fighting off the infections.  I still also test positive for infectious EBV.  I have been going about
my usual busy schedule despite that constant feeling of being tired -- My doctor said that this usually assists in a
more speeding recovery for EBV.  I keep hearing "Most People", very general info.  It has been 8 months and this menthod does not seem to be working for me.  Should I slow
things down dramatically for a few weeks to try and get through this?  I just feel so helpless and I'm TIRED of being so TIRED!!
Any suggestions you can make would be great.
P.S. I have been consistantly taking a multi-vitamin as well as eating fruits and vegetables.




Dear Joel:
Sorry to hear about your infection.  It is quite common for the white blood cell count to drop in a viral infection.  This is because the virus attacks the bone marrow and suppresses it's function.  Usually this is short lived and your white count returns to normal.  Once infected with epstein barr, your immune system will generate long lasting antibodies to it that will last many years.  This does not mean that your infected with active virus, but only that you have once been infected.  The acute phase antibody, IgM should not be present about one month after the infection.  Epstein barr virus is one of those viruses that can cause long term effects in some people.  Some think it is one of the viruses responsible from chronic fatique syndrome.  Hang in there, your doing the correct things.  Hopefully it will slowly resolve over time.  Good luck.
Sincerely,
CCF Neuro[P] MD