What is going on?

Hi Eden,

I am so sorry to hear you've been having such a hard time with glandular fever, it's very important for you to know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and the first year is an awful experience but things most definitely do get much better after that.

When I had the virus, a little older than you at around 25 or so, I thought I would never get better either. It was a dreadful feeling and the physical and mental feelings it brings on would be enough to send anyone close to the edge.

First thing is that what you're going through is the same as others on the site here and it's not abnormal for this to go on for so long and still make a complete and full recovery, which I really truly believe you will. Don't read the scare stories about Chronic Fatigue or anything, it's normal for your body to take a good year to get on the road to recovery with this. I used to worry that I wasn't getting better in the 6 to 8 weeks it told me that you would, but I have learned since that most websites and doctors don't seem to take account for the severity of the effects of the virus and the longevity it can take.

You will make a full recovery, you are young Eden and will most definitely get back to being a healthy young man and you will be fit and well to enjoy your youth again! Your body has marvellous powers of recovery and the energy that is gone now will return, your body does get resilient again even though whilst going through it, it doesn't feel that way.

In the meantime, it's hard I know but try and remove as much stress as you can, there is a clear link between stress and the illness, life balance is the key, listen to your body and rest but also still try to see friends and do things you enjoy without overdoing it. Taking a good multi vitamin can help, and also a therapy called Bowen therapy is something that has worked for me, have a look into it very harmless and good for the immune system.

Thinking of you and just a reminder that you will get through this and will get better - and I mean fully better!! Message any time as I like to keep an eye on the forum and see how everyone is doing.

Craig

Hi Eden,

First of all, you're not alone- glandular fever can be a dehabilitating illness that can leave you feeling very unwell for a long time. I have been signed off work for another month after my initial infection 18 months ago and so it is definitely true that it can last a while and come back months later. Like you, it has affected my white blood cell count and so I feel constantly worn down and fatigued. It has also made my blood sugar increase- another reason I'm so tired. I also lose concentration easily- not good when I'm a teacher lol!

However, what you are saying about social anxiety must be really difficult. I have done quite a lot of reading and this is a genuine symptom of glandular fever. I can understand how this can develop because you aren't going out so much and get so tired when you're with people - I definitely find that. I think you get so used to tiredness that you kind of choose to be on your own and I believe this creates low mood and fear of being around people. I'm not sure this is actually what your body and mind truly needs though. I actually think you need to slowly reintroduce activity into your life to get yourself used to things again. I believe you can do something about this. Try to invite friends for coffee instead of going out and possibly organise a 'walking buddy?' I know this sounds strange but if you try and get 15 minutes of fresh air and exercise a day, and you're doing this with a friend, it might help to ease your mind. It will also physically tire you out so that sleep becomes more beneficial. This is what I have tried and it has invigorated me and made me feel less weak. I would also try and take vitamin b every day- it helps boost energy and I find makes a difference to my state of mind.

Aswell as this, sleep when you need to. Possibly try to have an afternoon nap if you feel you need it?

The biggest thing I would say though is to talk. Share your experiences with your friends. They won't understand if you don't explain it to them.

I can honestly say this is the most difficult illness I have had but I also believe it is a stern reminder from your body that you're doing too much and need a break. It's like your body's way of saying ' I ne e to stop.' It is frustrating but I do think there are ways of managing it so that it doesn't affect your life forever- you will get better!

Like I say, I've had it on and off for 18 months, and whilst this has been frustrating, it hasn't been doom and gloom the whole time. I have had periods of time where I felt nearly normal. It just flares up when I'm doing too much. Maybe try to see it like this? More like your body's way of telling you to slow down?

I hope that was helpful X

Hi Eden,

Just wanted to see how you were feeling this week, and let you know I thinking about you and still really believe you will get over this terrible time with glandular fever that you have been going through. Just so sorry to hear it's been such an awful year for you, but let me reassure you that dealing with the second year after this virus is like a walk in the park compared to year 1. You might not still feel totally perfect but you will feel much much better I really believe that.

Hang in there and a full and active lifestyle is on its way back to you, frustrating I know it's not coming immediately but it will come have faith! There is hope today!

Craig