Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) And Fibromyalgia (FM)

Many symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to those of EBV. These overlapping symptoms include fatigue, recurrent headaches, muscle pain, joint pain and sleep disorders. These common symptoms raise the question of whether EBV is a causative agent in fibromyalgia.

Some physicians and patients believe that EBV is a trigger for fibromyalgia. Others pinpoint an association with other viruses like coxsackie virus, parovirus and HIV. Other people have noted that physical or emotional stress can trigger FM.

Because of similar symptoms, many chronic EBV patients are not diagnosed correctly if they also develop fibromyalgia. It is important to be aware of the diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia so you can discern if your symptoms are due to EBV or FM.

The most important diagnostic symptom for FM is pain in specific areas of the body including hips, collar bones and inside of the knees and elbows. The pain is symmetrical meaning it appears on both sides of the body. Experiencing significant pain when someone presses on these areas is indicative of this condition. In many patients even a gentle touch will elicit the pain response.

Standard medical treatment of FM is the prescription of pain killers, graded exercise and behavioral interventions. This can help relieve symptoms although the results are often transient.

The alternative approach to treating fibromyalgia is along the same lines as that for treating EBV. Natural treatment aims at re-balancing the immune system with nutrients, herbs, essential oils, graded exercise, stress management and the restoration of healthy sleep patterns.

Let's have a look at some of the natural approaches to treating both EBV and fibromyalgia:

Nutrition

To repair the adrenals and improve energy levels, nutrients like vitamin C, the B complex and magnesium are traditionally used. Magnesium particularly is showing good results in relaxing the muscles of the body and bringing pain relief.

Malic acid has been shown to be low in FM sufferers so should be taken as a supplement. It is also found in fruits like apples which have a sour or tart taste.

Diet

A low carbohydrate / high protein diet should be adhered to. Anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, fish oils, raw pineapple and paw paw should be included regularly in the diet. Plenty of water should be drunk to flush acids and toxins out of the body.

Sugar, alcohol, coffee and processed foods should be avoided. If there is joint pain then the nightshade family of foods including tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes and capsicum should be reduced or eliminated for optimal results.

Herbs

Herbs like chamomile, hops, skullcap and valerian can help relax the body and restore normal sleep patterns.

Graded exercise

Gentle, low impact exercise like swimming, walking, yoga and tai chi can improve circulation and healing to affected muscles and joints. Massage and epsom salt baths can also help to relieve muscle tension and aid in a good night's sleep.

Stress management

Dealing with stress through techniques like meditation, visualization, yoga, deep breathing or talking with a counsellor can go a long way in managing the symptoms of both EBV and fibromyalgia. Stress heightens pain so it is vital that it is addressed.