Post-viral Fatigue

Are you caught in the vicious cycle of stress, infections and fatigue? Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence in society today as many of us struggle to keep up with work and family commitments. If your finding yourself fatigued following a viral infection there are many ways natural therapies can help to boost your immune system, increase energy levels and address stress as an underlying cause.

What is post-viral fatigue?

Post-infective fatigue states have a long history and have been linked to a broad range of viruses including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus, Ross River fever and viral meningitis. It can even occur following a bad case of the flu. The fatigue following a virus can be prolonged and last for a month or become chronic and last for up to six months. It is thought that the viral infection can continue to replicate, causing the continuation of fatigue and other symptoms. Post-viral fatigue is also closely related to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome which is characterised by extreme fatigue lasting for at least six months, unexplained by other medical or psychological conditions.

Research has showed that the key risk factor for developing post-viral fatigue syndrome is the severity of the acute illness and not age, sex, or psychological factors.

The effects of stress

Don’t underestimate the effect of stress on the body. While your body is able to withstand small bouts of acute stress, the effects on ongoing, chronic stress can leave you with lowered defences against viruses – making you more susceptible to picking up an infection.  Stress and fatigue can also reactivate viruses such as the herpes virus that lie dormant in our body, waiting until you are at your most vulnerable. 

To help support the body during times of stress consider taking B complex, Magnesium and specific Herbs that can calm the nervous system and help with sleep.

The role of inflammation

Inflammation is another direct cause of fatigue involved in the vicious cycle of stress-infection-fatigue. Patients with chronic fatigue have been shown to have higher levels of compounds in the body called cytokines that promote inflammation in the body. Specific types and ratios of these cytokines indicate the presence of a persistent underlying infection. Interestingly, researchers have also identified that an increase in the cytokine TNF-α may also depict the presence of an inflamed gut or irritable bowel syndrome. They note that gut inflammation can alter the central nervous system, another common finding in those with chronic, extreme fatigue.

If inflammation is a factor for you, consider taking a good quality Fish oil capsule or anti-inflammatory herbs such as Turmeric or Boswellia. Antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E, Selenium and Zinc may also be helpful to prevent oxidative damage in the body and support healthy immune function. If you are experiencing digestive disturbances consider taking a probiotic alongside Aloe vera, Slippery elm and glutamine to reduce inflammation in the gut and promote healing.

Break the cycle with herbs

Herbs that are traditionally used for prolonged fatigue due to infection include Siberian ginseng, Korean ginseng, Reishi mushroom and Astragalas.

Specific anti-viral herbs can also be used to help fight active infection and prevent against future infection. These include Echinacea, St John’s wort, Propolis and Thyme.

Increase energy

L-Carnitine

L- Carnatine is an amino acid that has been proven to help improve general and mental fatigue. It has a number of important functions in regards to the maintenance of mitochonddrial health. Mitochondria are cells in the body that are involved in energy production, hence a dysfunction in this area can lead to fatigue.

Coenzyme Q10

Co Q10 is another mitochondrial nutrient that is needed for energy production and levels have been shown to be low in people with fatigue. Supplementing with a good quality procuct that contains at least 150mg.

Diet

• Consume small easy to digest meals such as soups and broths throughout the day to keep blood sugars balanced and to sustain energy levels.
• To supply the body with all the nutrients it needs and to support the immune system eat a variety of wholegrains, fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds.
• Sources of protein such as fish, eggs, lentils, legumes and natural yoghurt are also important to eat each day.
• Boost your immune system by consuming garlic, ginger, broccoli, berries and fermented foods such as kefir and sauerkraut.
• Avoid all dietary stimulants, such as caffeine, that will worsen the problem and delay recovery. Instead drink herbal teas and water with a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Avoid processed foods and sugar as these deplete energy levels and the immune system.

Lifestyle

It is important to allow the body to rest and recover following a viral infection so that you can be back on your feet sooner. Aim for 7-9 hours’ sleep each night. Try short walks, tai chi, yoga or stretching exercises before embarking on more intense exercise until your energy returns.

Conclusion

Post-viral fatigue, occurring after a severe viral infection can cause fatigue that may last up to six months. These infections highlight a wider interconnected web of fatigue, stress, inflammation and nervous system dysfunction. Natural therapies aim to support energy levels, reduce stress and inflammation, improve digestive health and strengthen the immune system.

References

1. Hickie I, et al. Post-infective and chronic fatigue syndromes precipitated by viral and non-viral pathogens: a prospective cohort study. BMJ. 2006 Sep 16;333(7568):575 http://www.bmj.com/content/333/7568/575.long
2. Hechtman L (2014). Clinical Naturopathic Medicine. Churchill Livingstone, Australia
3. Uchakin PN, et al. Fatigue in medical residents leads to reactivation of herpes virus latency. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis. 2011;2011:571340 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22229027
4. Bansal AS, et al. Chronic fatigue syndrome, the immune system and viral infection. Brain Behav Immun. 2012 Jan;26(1):24-31 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21756995