At a Glance: What is Reactivated Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)?
- Learn about Reactivated Epstein-Barr virus.
- Understand the nature of how the EBV virus gets reactivated (and thrives).
- Discover functional medicine and holistic treatments to target EBV’s root cause.
- Be aware of complications, symptoms, and how to find treatment for Reactivated EBV.
The culprit behind many health conditions and infectious mononucleosis (mono) may surprise you: the Epstein-Barr virus. Approximately 95% of the world’s population is infected with EBV, a member of the herpes virus family, and it remains in your body permanently – although dormant. The reactivated Epstein Barr virus happens when the virus is reactivated by certain health circumstances, such as high stress or a compromised immune system. Unlike other viruses that are eliminated by the immune system, EBV can “hide out” in B cells. Here, we highlight crucial information for Epstein-Barr virus prevention, as well as in-depth holistic treatments.
Reactivated Epstein-Barr Virus Symptoms
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is one of the most common viruses, primarily spreading through bodily fluids, especially saliva. It is the main cause of infectious mononucleosis (mono) and its associated symptoms. When reactivated, EBV can cause the same typical symptoms as the initial infection. Here are the most common Epstein-Barr virus symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes (found in the neck)
- Inflamed throat
- Rash
- Enlarged spleen
- Swollen liver
Diagnosis of Reactivated Epstein-Barr Virus
The diagnosis of the Epstein-Barr virus and reactivated Epstein-Barr virus can be difficult to pinpoint, as its symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Blood tests can detect antibodies produced by EBV, indicating a current or past infection, and comparing antibody levels over time can determine whether the virus was reactivated. Another Epstein-Barr virus test is called a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, which determines EBV genetic material in the blood, providing more direct proof that there’s an active infection. A positive test does not always determine an active infection, so your doctor will consider your symptoms, health history, and test results to make a proper diagnosis.
What are Reactivated Epstein-Barr Virus Causes?
Once you’ve contracted EBV, the virus remains dormant in your body. Certain health factors can trigger a reactivation, including:
Holistic, Natural, and Integrative Treatment Approaches
Although sometimes difficult to diagnose, there are treatments for the Epstein-Barr virus available through a holistic treatment. When using holistic and functional medicine, the practitioner focuses on the whole person, and targets the root causes rather than just the symptoms.
EBV Treatment Functional Medicine Approach
Epstein-Barr holistic treatment takes a multifaceted approach to target the person as a whole rather than just treat symptoms, giving a more effective and well-rounded method for treating the Epstein-Barr virus. Strengthening the immune system by focusing on building a healthy gut microbiome, and the use of appropriate antiviral medications and supplements are just some of the many functional medicine treatment approaches available.
Recovery and Long-Term Management
For those suffering from the reactivation of the Epstein-Barr virus or who are seeking relief from symptoms, know that it may take several weeks or even months to get to 100 percent health. However, the acute symptoms such as fever, sore throat, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes should gradually improve within 2-4 weeks. Reactivated EBV and Mononucleosis treatment involves rest, hydration, and a hiatus from high-intensity activity such as contact sports – you need to give your body time to heal and recuperate through plenty of rest.
Where to Get EBV Reactivation Treatment
Forum Health’s Treatment Strategies
We address reactivated Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) treatment through a holistic lens. Our 360-degree approach targets the root cause of EBV, addressing your diet, genetics, environment, and lifestyle, making Epstein-Barr holistic treatment much more effective than traditional methods.
Find a Forum Health Provider
If you’re ready to target unexplained health symptoms and take the holistic route to recovery, then reach out for a thorough functional medicine testing protocol through Forum Health with our team of experts in the functional medicine field.
FAQs and Additional Information
What are the 3 stages of the epstein-barr virus?
The stages of the Reactivated EBV are as follows:
- Immediate early: Genes like BZLF1 and BRLF1 are transcribed immediately after the virus enters host cells or receives an inducing signal.
- Early: A stage of gene expression in herpesvirus lytic replication.
- Late: A stage of gene expression in herpesvirus lytic replication
What happens if EBV reactivates?
If EBV reactivates, you may experience flu-like symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Inflamed throat
- Swollen lymph nodes (found in the neck)
- Rash
- Enlarged spleen
- Swollen liver
When treated early on, there are holistic protocols to help clear the virus. If the virus doesn’t heal on its own or treatment isn’t made, it could lead to further and more serious health complications.
What causes Epstein-Barr to flare up?
EBV is a virus that lays dormant in your body. Certain events may trigger a reactivation, including:
- High levels of stress
- A weakened immune system
- Hormonal changes (such as Menopause)
- Toxins
- Nutrition deficiencies
- Leaky gut
- Immunosuppressants
How long is reactivated EBV contagious?
If EBV reactivates in your body, it can potentially infect others for weeks until the virus clears, no matter how much time has passed since the first infection of EBV.
How do you fight reactivated EBV?
Unfortunately, there is no single cure for Reactivated EBV, but there are many holistic solutions to allow the virus to clear up on its own. Getting plenty of rest, working on stress management, boosting your immunity, enhancing your gut biome, and other wellness measures must be taken to allow the body to heal. Supplements, antiviral medication and other holistic treatments may be prescribed to aid in healing.
What are the potential complications of reactivated EBV
It’s important to note that most people experience mild symptoms with Reactivated Epstein-Barr virus, however, there are some cases where people with weakened immune systems could develop larger issues, such as:
- An enlarged spleen or even splenic rupture
- Anemia
- Nervous system complications within the brain and spinal cord
- Hepatitis
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
- Liver complications (such as developing Hepatitis)
- Multiple sclerosis: A 2022 study found that a previous EBV infection is the primary cause of MS (Epstein-Barr virus multiple sclerosis)
- Increased risk of certain cancers that are rare (Burkitt’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or nasopharyngeal carcinoma)
- Peritonsillar abscesses (puss-filled tissue near the tonsils)
- Acute bacterial sinusitis
- Mastoiditis (bacterial infection of the mastoid bone at the skull)
- Sialadenitis (swelling and injury of the salivary glands)
- Blockage of the air passages in the nose and throat
