Post Viral Syndrome (also known as Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome) refers to any lingering and persisting symptoms after a viral infection. It is often a difficult condition to diagnose and treat as people experience symptoms very different to one another. The most common symptoms that people report are feelings of fatigue and of generally feeling unwell, no matter how much sleep they are getting or how well they look after themselves.

Other symptoms that those with Post Viral Syndrome may experience are:

• Confusion
• Exhaustion
• Trouble concentrating 
• Headaches
• Aches and pains in the muscles
• Stiff joints 
• Sore throat 
• Swollen lymph nodes 

In some cases, the virus has actually been cleared out of the body but the body’s immune system still thinks that there is a foreign virus to attack. This can also lead to persisting symptoms. 

These symptoms can last for weeks, months or sometimes years after the viral infection. 

A Naturopath’s Perspective: 

A naturopath may like to do further investigations to rule out and gain clarity on any possible underlying causes that may be linked to your symptoms. These may include a Full Blood Examination, Full Iron Study, Vitamin D and Thyroid testing. 

Key Nutrients and Herbs To Support Recovery: 

• Zinc: Helps to build up and maintain a healthy immune system.

• Vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased susceptibility to viral infections and can increase the risk of recurrent infections.

• Vitamin C: Helps to prevent and alleviate viral infections and symptoms. 

• B vitamins: Helps to balance immune responses and to enhance the immune system to fight infections. 

• Medicinal mushrooms, such as Reishi and Cordyceps: These mushrooms help to modulate the immune system, fight against free radicals, reduce inflammation and can reduce symptoms of fatigue. 

• Echinacea: Modulates and enhances the immune system to decrease severity and duration of an infection and symptoms. 

• Siberian Ginseng: Modulates the immune system, possesses antiviral actions and is known as a tonic for invigoration to reduce symptoms of fatigue.

Lifestyle Advice To Support Recovery:

• Appropriate exercise (gentle, light weight exercise as tolerable) 
• Meditation
• Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to rest often. 
• Do things that you enjoy (eg. gardening, reading, playing music)
• Take time off work to help relax the nervous system and enhance immunity
• Sit in the sun often when the UV is low, usually early morning and late afternoon to ensure that you’re getting enough Vitamin D. You can check this via downloading a UV Index App on your phone. 

If you would like further assistance and support please don’t hesitate to contact our fully qualified naturopath, Emma, to book in an appointment and receive your very own individualised treatment plan.