Extreme fatigue, fever, muscular aches and pains, sore throat and swollen lymph glands, especially in the neck, are the symptoms of this illness.



Treatment

Aromatherapy Massage with essential oils; lavender has antiviral properties and is particularly effective. (Do not massage with oils while patient still has a fever; dilute oils with tepid water and sponge down instead.)

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Homeopathic Homeopathic remedies ean help with specific symptoms, particularly exhaustion, sweating, aches and pains, and depression.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Some sufferers henefit from these therapies.

Diet And Nutrition Eat foods rich in antioxidant nutrients (vitamins C, E, beta carotene, B-complex, and minerals copper, iron, zinc, and selenium). Garlic and ginger can be helpful. Sufferers from mononucleosis appear to have lower than normal levels of essential fatty acids (EFAs). A qualified nutritionist might recommend a combination of evening primrose oil and fish oils to help raise these levels and to alleviate the symptoms of fatigue and malaise. Large doses of vitamin C (up to 100g) given by intravenous injection with the pharmaceutical drug amantadine hydrochloride may remove symptoms and promote recovery. It is the "alternative" treatment of choice in the United States, but must be given by a medical physician.

Counseling, Rrlaxation Techniques, And Meditation All of these therapies are helpful for relieving stress and depression.

Shingles

The herpes zoster virus is the cause of shingles, which occurs when the immune system is weakened and the dormant virus is activated. Symptoms include acute skin sensitivity and a classic rash running around one half of the midriff. The face, neck, and (rarely) eyes may also be affected.

Treatment

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Aromatherapy, Homeopathy,and Acupuncture. All of these therapies are known to be benefical in cases of shingles. Accupunture can be effective in the treatment of postherpetic syndrome after infection.