Epstein-Barr (Mono Virus) Linked to Serious Diseases

mono, mononucleosis, Epstein-Barr virus, EBV
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“The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) — best known for causing mononucleosis — also increases the risks for some people of developing seven other major diseases, according to a new study. The diseases are: systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and type 1 diabetes. Combined, these diseases affect nearly 8 million people in the US.”

“Over the years, scientists have linked EBV to a few other rare conditions, including certain cancers of the lymphatic system. ”

READ the full Science Daily article here about how EBV affects the body and more.

I’d previously read that it’s also linked to mystery illnesses like chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, etc. The first time I saw a doctor for a mystery ailment was about 14 years ago (before the date on this article in April 2018) and that was when I was told I carry a higher viral load of Epstein-Barr in my blood.

This was approximately 5 years after having mono that I still had a high Epstein-Barr viral load and mysterious health problems.

I’ve never known exactly what happened, as things have since changed, but at the time I was sloppily diagnosed with fibromyalgia when the doctor found no reason for my pain and problems. All I knew is that being healthy and 27-years-old, I suddenly couldn’t walk up the stairs anymore and had so much pain sometimes I spent several days on the couch, unable to move. When I went anywhere with my family, I would have to recover for days.

These things are not normal, and yet they were not taken seriously by the doctor or people in my life. Having been 14 years ago, I can only hope others are finding answers and relief now that there’s more awareness, studies, and sufferers looking for help.