MORE COMMON IMMUNE-SYSTEM DISEASES: COMMON COLD AND EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS (EBV)
COMMON COLD: a virus that attacks the upper respiratory tract, especially the nose and throat.
Signs and Symptoms: occur one to three days after exposure if the immune system fails to resist the cold. Generally an ache in the throat; runny nose; sneezing; a feeling of malaise. Adults may or may not have fever, children generally do. Often hoarseness of voice; cough due to inflammation of trachea; some tightness of the chest. There may be a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, and there may be discharge (secretions) from throat or nose. A cold generally lasts a week, although it may go into a second week. If it continues longer, suspect a bacterial invasion.
EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS (EBV): causes infectious mononucleosis. It’s been shown in Africa to cause a form of cancer, and it may be a sign of impending immune-system failure. Some studies indicate it’s present in many cases of AIDS.
Signs and Symptoms: may be nonexistent or nonspecific such as weakness, fatigue, malaise. Also see mononucleosis.
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