Mononucleosis

Background

Infectious mononucleosis, or "mono," is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. The virus is spread via saliva, which is why it’s also called the "kissing disease." Mono is especially common in 15-17 year-olds, and over 90% of people have had it by age 30 (often mistakenly thinking it was just a really bad cold).

Symptoms of mono

• Fatigue
• Fever and sore throat
• Swollen lymph glands

A simple blood test will diagnose the acute infection (but these tests are usually NOT reliable for chronic infections present longer than 3-6 months).

Rarely, as can occur with most any virus, post-viral fatigue (a.k.a., Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) may occur. This is very treatable with the S.H.I.N.E. Protocol. 

Treatments

Treatment requires supportive care with rest and fluids.

Recommended Supplements & Medications

Tagamet or Pepcid

A surprisingly effective treatment is the medication Tagamet (Cimetidine), 400 mg 3x a day, or Pepcid (famotidine 40 mg 2-3x a day; this is easier to find) which can be found in most drug stores over the counter (look in the antacid section). Used for indigestion, this medication also has powerful immune-modulating effects that often eliminate the mono symptoms in a few days (I’ve seen it eliminate the symptoms in under 24 hours in teens so sick they were hospitalized). Do NOT use other acid blockers, called PPIs.

Thymic Protein

Thymic protein can be a very helpful immune stimulant to optimize immune function inmost infections.

Vitamin C

High-dose vitamin C (using a buffered vitamin C powder such as the powdered "Buffered C Complex" found at the Vitamin Shoppe stores, or Emergen-C powder found at most health food stores) 1,000-2,000 mg each hour while awake can also markedly decrease symptoms. Lower the dose when it causes diarrhea (oddly, that’s how you know you’re getting the right amount!).