What is Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and what are its risks?
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a member of the herpes virus that can infect humans. Infections caused by this virus are very common, you may even be infected with this virus and not be aware of it. One of the main symptoms of Epstein-Barr is fever that can last for several weeks. So it can be controlled in the early stages, but if these infections are controllable in the early stages, they become more dangerous. It.
Following this article, stay with GCORP LLC to share more information about the dangerous symptoms and complications of Epstein-Barr.
What is Epstein-Barr virus?..
Epstein-Barr virus first infects part of a person's immune cells that are responsible for protecting the body.. Once you are infected with Epstein-Barr virus, the virus remains inactive in your body for the rest of your life, which is called latency.. In some cases, the virus can become active again, but it usually does not cause symptoms slowly.>..
Symptoms of Epstein-Barr virus
This virus usually does not cause specific symptoms, especially in children, there are fewer symptoms.... The most common Epstein-Barr symptoms that teenagers and adults can experience are:
- Fever
- Feeling tired
- Headache
- Sore throat Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or under the arms
- Swollen tonsils Spleen enlargement (splenomegaly).
- Skin rash
These symptoms can last 2 to 4 weeks, although fatigue may last for weeks or months.
How Epstein-Barr virus spreads
Epstein-Barr virus is transmitted from person to person through body fluids, especially saliva... That's why mononucleosis, one of the most famous infections associated with the virus, is commonly known as the kissing disease.. In addition, the virus can spread through blood and semen.
As soon as the virus enters the body, you can start spreading it....so even before you have symptoms of an active infection, the virus is contagious....you should be aware that as long as the virus is not active, you may be able to transmit it to others for weeks or even months....when the virus is inactive, you can no longer transmit it to others....so if you are sure you have the virus, follow it..
It is interesting to know that this The virus remains in the body and can be activated under various conditions, such as:
- Exposure to radiation and toxic metals
- Exposure to insecticides and building paints
- Nutrition deficiency
- Physical injuries
- Emotional pressures
Epstein-Barr virus detection tests
Possible Epstein-Barr infections are often diagnosed without any tests....however, blood tests can detect the presence of antibodies associated with the virus....one of these is known as the mono test....however, the results are not always accurate....in addition to the mono test, there are other blood tests that detect more specific antibodies to the virus....including:
- Viral capsid antigen (VCA): Antibodies to VCA appear early in infection.. One type disappears after a few weeks, while the other type persists for life.
- Early Antigen (EA): EA antibodies appear during active infection....usually become undetectable after several months.. Of course, they may remain longer in some people.
- Nuclear Antigen(EBNA): These antibodies appear slowly in the months after infection and can be detected throughout the person's life.
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Epstein-Barr virus treatment
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for this virus and since the symptoms are caused by the virus, the infections do not respond to antibiotics..so all you have to do is manage the symptoms..the following will go a long way in your recovery:
- Adequate rest
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Consumption of painkillers to relieve fever or sore throat
- Avoid contact sports
Effects of Epstein-Barr virus
This infection can cause a variety of mild and serious diseases, which include:
- Rupture of the spleen anemia
- low number of platelets (thrombocytopenia)
- Hepatitis myocarditis
Dangers of Epstein-Barr virus
Epstein-Barr and cancer
Epstein-Barr virus can increase the risk of some rare cancers because mutations in Epstein-Barr virus-infected cells lead to cancerous changes. Some types of cancer that are associated with this virus include:
- Cancers of the nasopharynx
- Burkitt's lymphoma
- Hodgkin lymphoma
- Gastric adenocarcinoma (stomach cancer)
These cancers usually occur in Africa and some parts of Southeast Asia and are uncommon outside of these areas. Most people with Epstein-Barr infection do not develop these cancers, and only a small number of cancers are seen.. Overall, it is estimated that Epstein-Barr infection is associated with only 1.5% of cancers worldwide.
Autoimmune disorders
For a long time, Epstein-Barr virus was thought to be related to autoimmune disorders. Experts believe that this virus may cause changes in the way some genes function. This change can increase the risk of developing an autoimmune disorder.
Of course, more research is still needed to understand the potential connection between this virus and autoimmune diseases.
Chronic Epstein-Barr
In very rare cases, Epstein-Barr infection can lead to a chronic disease known in English as CAEBV. This disease is characterized by persistent symptoms and blood test evidence of active infection. have.. CAEBV is a hematopoietic stem cell transplant.... Over time, CAEBV can cause several complications, including:
- Weak immune system
- Lymphoma
- Hemophagocytic syndrome (a rare immune disorder)
- Organ failure
Conclusion
As mentioned, the Epstein-Barr virus is very common, usually seen in children without symptoms and in adults with symptoms such as fatigue, fever and swollen lymph nodes... In very rare cases, this virus can cause a chronic infection that is fatal if left untreated... Therefore, before it worsens, you should see an infectious disease doctor.... You can make an appointment with doctors online and in person for the treatment of Epstein-Barr and other diseases.. touch... If you have a history of contracting this virus in yourself or someone close to you, please write us your experience in the comments.[sibwp_form id=5]
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