Symptom 10. Loss of Appetite: An Unexpected Battlefront in Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Loss of appetite in Epstein-Barr Virus is not just a side effect but an unexpected battlefront in the infection. This symptom is more complex than simply not feeling hungry; it’s a reflection of the body’s total response to the viral invasion.
Unlike other symptoms, loss of appetite might seem indirect, disconnected from the infection itself. However, it’s a sign of the body’s overall state, a reflection of the energy being redirected to fight the virus.
What’s intriguing about this symptom is its impact on overall well-being. The appetite loss in EBV can be profound, leading to weight loss and fatigue, showing how a symptom that seems peripheral can have central effects. (10)