Aa
Unidentified viral infection
Hi, I’m hoping someone can shed some light on my very unusual and extremely frustrating, stressful situation.
Unfortunately I contracted a hellish viral infection 4 weeks following a silly unprotected sexual encounter. It is now 15 weeks since my possible exposure. I’m 24, female, non drug user otherwise fit and healthy with no other illnesses prior.
Symptoms include:
- severe muscle pains in thighs and arms
- joint pain
- sore throat
- night sweats
- nightmares
- chronic constipation
- yeast infections both oral and vaginal
- painful lymph nodes throughout body but no swelling
- tingling legs/feet and occasional numbness
- headache/migraine
- recurring mouth ulcers
- dry mouth
- tiny pin prick red dots scattered at various places (petechia?)
- nausea no vomiting
- hot flushes/high temperature
- weight loss (9st down to 7st 8 in 8 weeks)
- abdominal pain
- mild spleen/liver pain
- pelvic pain/irregular periods (not sure if this is linked but it’s all started within this time frame)
- constant fatigue
- high heart rate/tachycardia
Since the encounter my health has taken a turn for the worse. At first I was convinced I had been infected with HIV but I have taken tests at 6,7,8,10,11,13,14 and 15 weeks all NEGATIVE including Ab/Ag duo tests. Hep A, B, C and Syphills have all been ruled out. My only remaining thoughts are possibly CMV or EBV? However my illness has been so severe I doubt it is either of these. CBC also revealed low lymphocytes at the beginning of the illness, slightly low platelets but nothing concerning according to my doc. Also Vitamin D deficiency.
My doctor has referred me to an ID specialist (appointment scheduled end of Jan). Has anyone else had similar experiences? I am so scared my health is rapidly declining but tests are repeatedly negative! Could HIV still be a possibility? Someone please help put my mind at ease!
Unfortunately I contracted a hellish viral infection 4 weeks following a silly unprotected sexual encounter. It is now 15 weeks since my possible exposure. I’m 24, female, non drug user otherwise fit and healthy with no other illnesses prior.
Symptoms include:
- severe muscle pains in thighs and arms
- joint pain
- sore throat
- night sweats
- nightmares
- chronic constipation
- yeast infections both oral and vaginal
- painful lymph nodes throughout body but no swelling
- tingling legs/feet and occasional numbness
- headache/migraine
- recurring mouth ulcers
- dry mouth
- tiny pin prick red dots scattered at various places (petechia?)
- nausea no vomiting
- hot flushes/high temperature
- weight loss (9st down to 7st 8 in 8 weeks)
- abdominal pain
- mild spleen/liver pain
- pelvic pain/irregular periods (not sure if this is linked but it’s all started within this time frame)
- constant fatigue
- high heart rate/tachycardia
Since the encounter my health has taken a turn for the worse. At first I was convinced I had been infected with HIV but I have taken tests at 6,7,8,10,11,13,14 and 15 weeks all NEGATIVE including Ab/Ag duo tests. Hep A, B, C and Syphills have all been ruled out. My only remaining thoughts are possibly CMV or EBV? However my illness has been so severe I doubt it is either of these. CBC also revealed low lymphocytes at the beginning of the illness, slightly low platelets but nothing concerning according to my doc. Also Vitamin D deficiency.
My doctor has referred me to an ID specialist (appointment scheduled end of Jan). Has anyone else had similar experiences? I am so scared my health is rapidly declining but tests are repeatedly negative! Could HIV still be a possibility? Someone please help put my mind at ease!
Hello~Many of your symptoms point to a condition called "Candida" This is a type of yeast infection found in the intestines, skin and other areas, it can cause almost every symptom you are having. I would certainly ask your physician to be tested for it.
Also, try avoiding foods that Candida loves. There is no clearcut formula for the exact foods or combinations that will work best for you, but there are certain foods known to starve candida and promote beneficial bacteria populations. Strive for a fresh food diet rich in variety, fiber, whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits and nuts. Moderate fats and proteins should be included for proper nutritional balance.
Your diet is modifiable at any stage. See what works best for you. Every body is different, as factors like the types of bugs in your gut at the time, your stress levels, how relaxed you are when eating, etc. all combine to determine how a diet will affect your system.
Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, spinach, onions, garlic and dark-colored veggies are best. However, if your candidiasis is severe, you should avoid starchier veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots and corn until you restore healthy gut balance.
Fruits: Be careful not to overindulge on fruits due to their naturally high sugar content. However, green apple, kiwi, pomegranate, avocado and dark-colored berries are good choices in moderation.
Grains: Unless you have gluten issues, most whole grains are fine in moderation.
Proteins: Eggs, chicken, fish, and grass-fed beef are excellent sources of protein that don't encourage candida. Stay with organic and antibiotic-free meats, as antibiotics destroy the good bacteria, making the re-balancing of microflora more difficult. For vegans and vegetarians, good quality legumes, nuts, and soy protein should be incorporated.
Probiotic Foods: Yogurt and fermented foods, such as kimchee, tempeh, miso, sauerkraut and the like help rebuild good bacteria you need to fight the bad guys.
Foods to Avoid:
The hardest part of getting away from the bad foods you've grown to rely on for comfort, a quick hunger fix, etc. is actually more about your relationship with these dietary offenders than the amounts you eat. Many people actually form a deep bond with chocolate, for example, treating it as a cherished friend.
You already know that processed foods, sugary treats and alcohol are "bad foods for candida" for fighting candidiasis, so it's time to break those emotional bonds and move on. You WILL get through the transition just fine if you put your mind to it.
STEP 2: LIFESTYLE
Stress: Eating the healthiest diet in the world will not do much good to stop candidiasis if you're living a stressful life, whether it's work-related, financial or personal/emotional stress. Even low-level ongoing stresses of constantly being tethered to digital devices, multi-tasking, rushing around like a headless chicken, etc. will adversely affect how your gut handles things - digestively, chemically and otherwise. All health starts from the gut, and the gut is the first casualty of stress.
So two words: chill out! Stress management is truly important to your health, not just some idealistic concept.
Sleep: Like stress, lack of sleep is another major culprit in gut imbalances and poor health. If you're not sleeping properly, once again, all the other healthy steps you may be taking will be negated. Your body needs a certain amount of sleep, no matter how amazing you may be.
Attitude: If you maintain a positive state of mind and truly believe that you can fully recover your health, you will. More laughter is highly recommended, as it actually IS an excellent medicine.
Exercise: Get your body moving in a way that you enjoy and will continue to do willingly. Walking, swimming, an exercise class or biking are just a few great options that help stimulate your immune function, mood and overall health.
STEP 3: DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS
Good quality natural dietary supplements can be a great help for your candida cleanse regimen. Certain herbs, enzymes, antifungals, antimicrobials and other natural substances contain properties known to help slow and reverse candida overgrowth, strengthen the immune system and improve overall gut health. Canxida supplements are the best for candida yeast infection. Visit Canxida.com to learn more.
Some of the recommended natural additions to a candida cleanse diet include:
•Coconut Oil
•Reishi Mushrooms
•Zinc
•Aloe Vera
•Kombucha Tea
•Fish Oil
•Green Tea
•Apple Cider Vinegar
•Peppermint Oil
•Castor Oil
I hope this helps some and that you get some clear-cut answers.
Oh, and also try to find a book by Dr Crook called "The Yeast Connection" It has a wealth of info in it.
Also, try avoiding foods that Candida loves. There is no clearcut formula for the exact foods or combinations that will work best for you, but there are certain foods known to starve candida and promote beneficial bacteria populations. Strive for a fresh food diet rich in variety, fiber, whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits and nuts. Moderate fats and proteins should be included for proper nutritional balance.
Your diet is modifiable at any stage. See what works best for you. Every body is different, as factors like the types of bugs in your gut at the time, your stress levels, how relaxed you are when eating, etc. all combine to determine how a diet will affect your system.
Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, spinach, onions, garlic and dark-colored veggies are best. However, if your candidiasis is severe, you should avoid starchier veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots and corn until you restore healthy gut balance.
Fruits: Be careful not to overindulge on fruits due to their naturally high sugar content. However, green apple, kiwi, pomegranate, avocado and dark-colored berries are good choices in moderation.
Grains: Unless you have gluten issues, most whole grains are fine in moderation.
Proteins: Eggs, chicken, fish, and grass-fed beef are excellent sources of protein that don't encourage candida. Stay with organic and antibiotic-free meats, as antibiotics destroy the good bacteria, making the re-balancing of microflora more difficult. For vegans and vegetarians, good quality legumes, nuts, and soy protein should be incorporated.
Probiotic Foods: Yogurt and fermented foods, such as kimchee, tempeh, miso, sauerkraut and the like help rebuild good bacteria you need to fight the bad guys.
Foods to Avoid:
The hardest part of getting away from the bad foods you've grown to rely on for comfort, a quick hunger fix, etc. is actually more about your relationship with these dietary offenders than the amounts you eat. Many people actually form a deep bond with chocolate, for example, treating it as a cherished friend.
You already know that processed foods, sugary treats and alcohol are "bad foods for candida" for fighting candidiasis, so it's time to break those emotional bonds and move on. You WILL get through the transition just fine if you put your mind to it.
STEP 2: LIFESTYLE
Stress: Eating the healthiest diet in the world will not do much good to stop candidiasis if you're living a stressful life, whether it's work-related, financial or personal/emotional stress. Even low-level ongoing stresses of constantly being tethered to digital devices, multi-tasking, rushing around like a headless chicken, etc. will adversely affect how your gut handles things - digestively, chemically and otherwise. All health starts from the gut, and the gut is the first casualty of stress.
So two words: chill out! Stress management is truly important to your health, not just some idealistic concept.
Sleep: Like stress, lack of sleep is another major culprit in gut imbalances and poor health. If you're not sleeping properly, once again, all the other healthy steps you may be taking will be negated. Your body needs a certain amount of sleep, no matter how amazing you may be.
Attitude: If you maintain a positive state of mind and truly believe that you can fully recover your health, you will. More laughter is highly recommended, as it actually IS an excellent medicine.
Exercise: Get your body moving in a way that you enjoy and will continue to do willingly. Walking, swimming, an exercise class or biking are just a few great options that help stimulate your immune function, mood and overall health.
STEP 3: DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS
Good quality natural dietary supplements can be a great help for your candida cleanse regimen. Certain herbs, enzymes, antifungals, antimicrobials and other natural substances contain properties known to help slow and reverse candida overgrowth, strengthen the immune system and improve overall gut health. Canxida supplements are the best for candida yeast infection. Visit Canxida.com to learn more.
Some of the recommended natural additions to a candida cleanse diet include:
•Coconut Oil
•Reishi Mushrooms
•Zinc
•Aloe Vera
•Kombucha Tea
•Fish Oil
•Green Tea
•Apple Cider Vinegar
•Peppermint Oil
•Castor Oil
I hope this helps some and that you get some clear-cut answers.
Oh, and also try to find a book by Dr Crook called "The Yeast Connection" It has a wealth of info in it.
2 Comments
Thank you for all of your suggestions @sassylassie will definitely give it a try!
Sounds good, please let me know how it goes and don't be disappointed if you don't see immediate results, it takes time, but it will happen. Also, some folks experience "retracing or die off" reactions, this is just the symptoms getting a wee bit worse but be glad, it is meaning it is killing the yeast/parasite, when this happens, take a very high potency pro-biotic, this helps to alleviate some of the worse symptoms.
Glad you tested negative for all std's and HIV so that is absolutely not a concern. Are you just mentioning that so we are aware that you are over that and it is ruled out? Tests for HIV are very accurate but notice that a lot of people have obsessive worry and thoughts about it and often treating OCD fully or anxiety in general will alleviate the worry. Just adding that.
So, perhaps these things are not related to each other. That happens. You could have a virus, more than one virus and anxiety and those things will cause you to feel every ache, pain or tingle in your body magnifying them until you are convinced something major is wrong. I'm assuming you are working with your physician? Check out this info about EBV https://www.emedicinehealth.com/epstein-barr_virus_infection/article_em.htm It might help you decide if that is a possibility for real but also do see in your postings a bit of anxiety influencing your symptoms. Psychosomatic symptoms do happen. I know from experience as it happened to me. I had health anxiety and was convinced. when in reality, I did not have a serious illness. :>) good luck
So, perhaps these things are not related to each other. That happens. You could have a virus, more than one virus and anxiety and those things will cause you to feel every ache, pain or tingle in your body magnifying them until you are convinced something major is wrong. I'm assuming you are working with your physician? Check out this info about EBV https://www.emedicinehealth.com/epstein-barr_virus_infection/article_em.htm It might help you decide if that is a possibility for real but also do see in your postings a bit of anxiety influencing your symptoms. Psychosomatic symptoms do happen. I know from experience as it happened to me. I had health anxiety and was convinced. when in reality, I did not have a serious illness. :>) good luck
4 Comments
I also note that you have seen a doctor and he recognizes some of your symptoms but says they are not concerning nor lead to a diagnosis?
Thank you for replying! I totally agree that psychosomatic disorders exist, but my doctor agrees that this issue is viral as my blood results back this up. I know it seems irrational to continue to focus on HIV despite multiple negative tests, however my symptoms have been so severe it has got me wondering whether I am indeed one of those ‘rare cases’ I honestly have never felt illness like this before. Thank you for the information on EBV i will be sure to read up. Stay well and thanks again :)
You have multiple negative tests for HIV so that is not on the table to consider at this point and it does sound irrational to take tests (I'm guessing you've taken many) that are negative and to not believe them. That's the essence of health anxiety. You are not a rare case and I am sure your doctor has told you this. But your inability to accept it means you really need to look at the anxiety component to this. That all sounds a bit tough love but I hate that you are doing this to yourself. I've been in the position before too. It's hard to see when you are in the throes of it.
While I agree something can be going on health wise for you and perhaps EBV is it, your fear is keeping you side tracked from recovering if you continue to fixate on HIV. I just want you to feel better and to be able to have peace as I'm sure you really want! Hang in there!
While I agree something can be going on health wise for you and perhaps EBV is it, your fear is keeping you side tracked from recovering if you continue to fixate on HIV. I just want you to feel better and to be able to have peace as I'm sure you really want! Hang in there!
Thank you so much for your words of wisdom. You have no idea how much a few kind words can make a difference to a persons day. I admit anxiety has taken a hold of me since the onset of this entire health issue and I have accepted help for this - I am waiting for therapy regarding health anxiety. I just can’t see anything other than HIV :( it’s definitely a viral issue which started after the encounter so nothing else seems to make sense. Each day is a constant battle I feel so helpless and fear the worst. I really do hope things improve. I’m taking care of my health by taking vitamins, eating relatively healthy and exercising when I can. Yet I still feel at a complete loss as my entire body has been affected. Currently still suffering with chronic constipation, mouth issues, pelvic and abdominal pain. I guess I need to hold out until I see my ID specialist.
In addition, sharp spinal pain, low blood pressure, vertigo and dizziness. All other STI checks are clear.
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