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Fish Oil As a Treatment for Mono

There is no cure for mononucleosis, and patients who acquire the virus usually suffer through a long list of symptoms that must run their course before finally dissipating. Adventist Healthcare explains that though the symptoms of mono can last for weeks or even months, fish oil supplementation has been found to boost the immune system and help relieve some of the uncomfortable side effects of the mono virus. Oils derived from salmon and other cold water fish are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that can bring relief to patients who are suffering from mono.

  1. What is Mono?

    • The term mono refers to a contagious virus known as mononucleosis. According to MayoClinic, mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which once introduced into the body, becomes a lifelong resident. Weakness and fatigue are the most common symptoms associated with mono, but complications can develop that may affect the liver and spleen.

    Muscle Weakness

    • Mono can cause debilitating muscle weakness and general fatigue. Fish oil can help mono sufferers by helping to alleviate these symptoms. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that the EBV virus that is the root cause of mono plays an active role in the fatigue symptoms. Because fatigue is caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, it is believed that the fatty acids found in fish oil can help to protect and restore the production of phospholipids in the brain.

    Anti-Inflammatory Effects

    • In the early stages of a mono infection, a skin rash may occur. The itchy, red rash can appear anywhere on the body, and although it is usually mild, the rash can become quite uncomfortable. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that fish oils can be effective in treating rashes associated with mononucleosis because they contain anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.

    Pain

    • A mononucleosis infection is usually accompanied by a severe sore throat and, in some instances, muscle pain. Fish oil can be a healthier alternative to aspirin for relieving pain. In young children, aspirin can lead to Reyes Syndrome, which can have a detrimental effect on the liver and brain. One to two capsules of fish oil three times daily can help ease pain.

    Immune System Boost

    • Mono can wreak havoc on the immune system, affecting white blood cell counts as well as blood platelet counts. And because the white blood cells are so busy combating the mononucleosis virus, the immune system may not be strong enough to fend off invaders that pose other risks of infection. Fish oil supplements such as those that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help increase the production of prostaglandins, which play a key role as inflammation regulators within the immune system.

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