Epstein Barr Syndrome Symptoms - Fatigue, Nausea and Loose Stools

Although Epstein Barr Syndrome symptoms can be uncomfortable and distressing, they should not be ignored or suppressed with medication. Symptoms are an indication that your body is mounting an immune response to the virus.

In a recent article we discussed the typical Epstein Barr Syndrome symptoms of sore throat, swollen glands and fever. Today we will be looking at fatigue, nausea and loose stools.

Fatigue

Fatigue is probably the most common of the Epstein Barr Syndrome symptoms. It can range from mild to debilitating. Fatigue, lethargy and brain fog are your body's way of telling you to rest and allow your body to heal. You need every ounce of energy to go towards fighting the virus.

I see far too many patients who ignore their Epstein Barr Syndrome symptoms. They continue to rush around - attending school or college, going to work, playing sport or running a busy household. I understand that everyone has commitments and responsibilities but you need to be aware that if you don't rest your body you are likely to prolong the duration of your illness or suffer complications like secondary infections or chronic fatigue.

The best advice for fatigue is to rest and sleep as much as possible in the early stages of this illness. Supporting your body with a light, healthy diet, plenty of fluids and some energy-boosting nutrients will go a long way to getting you back on track quickly.

Nausea and vomiting

These Epstein Barr Syndrome symptoms are your body's way of discouraging eating and getting rid of microbes, toxins and excess foods in your gastrointestinal tract. Nausea can also indicate that your liver has been infected with the virus.

To decrease nausea and vomiting, consume a liquid-only diet for a few days until symptoms have passed. Focus on consuming light broths, soups, lemon water, herb teas, diluted vegetable juices and pure water. Avoid fatty foods, dairy, alcohol or heavy foods which can worsen these symptoms.

Some patients get great results by drinking ginger or peppermint teas or snacking on small, frequent servings of dry toast or crackers.

Loose stools

Loose stools or diarrhea allow your body to evacuate microbes and their toxins from your intestines. Again consuming a liquid-only diet is the recommended approach. This rests your digestion and allows precious energy to be diverted into healing your body.

Do not try and stop diarrhea with medication. Suppressing your body's natural elimination can hinder your recovery or encourage other problems like nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. If you experience severe diarrhea or vomiting which lasts more than 24 hours then you may need an electrolyte-replacement drink to replenish electrolytes like sodium and potassium which may have been lost.

It is important that you let your Epstein Barr Syndrome symptoms run their course naturally. Supporting your recovery with rest, staying hydrated, taking the correct diet, nutrients and herbs and managing your stress is the best approach.