Epstein-Barr virus, chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome
Article Abstract:
Chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS), is reportedly causing debilitating fatigue in thousands of people. It was initially thought to be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), the same virus that causes infectious mononucleosis, which also causes debilitating fatigue. This theory could not be substantiated, and some now think it is caused by a combination of viruses, including the cytomegalovirus, which is related to the EBV. The syndrome has been renamed, from Chronic Epstein-Barr Virus Syndrome to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This syndrome can affect anyone, but is most common among women in their early 30s. Many of these patients function fine until they are exposed to any stress, whether emotional, or due to an acute illness or even exposure to a strong dose of pesticides. The author has found many CFIDS patients in his practice to have underlying dysfunctions such as an underactive thyroid, problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ, the jaw joint), parasite and yeast infections, mitral valve prolapse (incomplete closing of a heart valve), sugar intolerance and low blood sugar, and allergies and other hypersensitivities to food and environmental substances. Exposure to environmental pollutants greatly stresses and weakens the immune system, as does overuse of antibiotics and pain killers. Treatment of this immune dysfunction includes avoidance of pollutants, a detoxification program, intravenous vitamin C, and a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Treatment of mental and emotional problems is also an important step to recovery. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Holistic Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0884-3988
Year: 1990
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Are we parasitized?
Article Abstract:
The number of persons being infected by parasites annually is on the rise, and the incidence of infection by some parasites has quadrupled over the last 15 years. Overall, these microbial infections kill more people than AIDS and cancer combined. Parasites such as ascaris lumbricoides are thought to be responsible for 20,000 deaths per year. Schistosomiasis, transmitted by infected water, affects 20 million victims throughout Africa, Asia, and South America. The parasite causes vomiting of blood as well as enlarged spleens and livers. Filariasis causes enlarged limbs and scrota in over 2 million new cases a year in India and elsewhere. Malaria kills over 1 million per year and infects as many as 300 million people. In less severe cases, parasites rob valuable nutrients, damage intestinal mucosa, and cause generalized allergic reactions. In cases where parasites are suspected from the patient's history (travel to foreign countries and exposure to pets are two possible sources of parasite infection), persistence may be needed for diagnostic accuracy. Confirming intestinal parasite infection is often difficult, at times requiring 8 to 9 specimens before a positive sample is found. Many times, egg and larva are destroyed by the fixative and preservative processes used in the collection of specimens, further hindering already difficult identification. The general health of the patient often improves and the healing of chronic resistant diseases often occurs when parasites are treated and eliminated.
Publication Name: Holistic Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0884-3988
Year: 1989
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Fatigue: when to rest, when to worry
Article Abstract:
Persistent fatigue is often the sign of a physical problem, and people should visit their doctor for an assessment. Fatigue has several causes, including stress, anxiety, inactivity, poor eating habits, certain medications and lack of sleep. Physical conditions that cause fatigue include thyroid problems, anemia, cancer, an underlying illness, depression, diabetes and sleep apnea.
Publication Name: Mayo Clinic Health Letter
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0741-6245
Year: 1999
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