Cytomegalovirus in the child: what to do?

Cytomegalovirus in a child is a very serious and dangerous disease, which, unfortunately, today is very difficult to treat, and getting rid of it is completely impossible.

Cytomegalovirus in the child: causes of the disease

  The causative agent of the disease is cytomegalovirus, which belongs to the family of herpes viruses. The virus particle has double-stranded DNA and is very similar in appearance to other members of the family, including the herpes simplex virus. Cytomegalovirus can exist in the body without causing any symptoms or complications. It manifests itself when there is a disturbance in the functioning of the immune system.

Cytomegalovirus can only reproduce in human cells. At the child infection occurs, as a rule, during intrauterine development, or directly during the birth process. The most common transmission of the virus along with breast milk. But it is possible and infection in a more adult age. Transmission is only from an infected person. Viral particles penetrate along with saliva or blood.

Cytomegalovirus in the child: symptoms and possible complications

  This kind of virus is borne by a child much harder than an adult organism. Although in some cases (with strong immunity) the disease does not manifest itself.

The first symptom, which indicates the presence of the virus in the body is mononucleosis. This disease manifests itself in the temperature, fatigue, weakness and capriciousness of the child. With proper and timely treatment, all symptoms can be removed. In more severe cases, viral particles begin to affect all organs - the kidneys, lungs, heart.

A completely different picture is observed with congenital cytomegalovirus. Infection of the fetus occurs if the mother first became infected with the virus already during pregnancy, and no attempts were made to correct the condition. Congenital cytomegalovirus infection is a very dangerous and difficult diagnosis. Such children may develop complications, for example, a delay in mental development. Approximately 25% of cases of congenital infection kill children.

Than to treat a cytomegalovirus?

  The only way to diagnose cytomegalovirus in a child is to perform a blood test for the presence of antibodies to it. In this case, it is necessary to pay attention to their number - the content of antibodies should increase at least four times.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to completely remove the infection from the body at this time. Therefore, all methods of treatment are aimed at slowing the reproduction of viral particles, as well as increasing immunity. It is for this purpose that children regularly undergo antiretroviral therapy. In addition, it is necessary and immunotherapy, the intake of vitamins, in a word, all that improves the functioning of the immune system.

Folk remedies for cytomegalovirus

  Traditional medicine is known for a variety of drugs that allow you to fight with cytomegalovirus. Most of them are aimed at strengthening the immune system. For example, a sick child should eat right, eat raw, fresh fruits and vegetables, exercise and temper the body.

In addition, there is also a fairly effective prescription that will help relieve the aggravation. For its preparation, take an equal number of roots of dandelion, bark of alder and aspen. A tablespoon of this mixture, pour 600 ml of boiling water and cook over low heat for no longer than 5 minutes. You need to drink twice a day for 20 grams before eating.

Cytomegalovirus in the child: prevention

  Since it is impossible to get rid of the virus, it is much easier to prevent its penetration into the body. Very carefully you need to treat your pregnancy - do not neglect hygiene, wash your hands before eating, avoid contact with sick people. If during pregnancy there is still an infection, then you need to urgently begin treatment. To this end, use antiviral drugs and immunotherapy.