View source for Viral Infection - Acute

== What Does It Mean? ==
An Acute Viral Infection refers to a rapid onset of illness caused by a viral pathogen. Unlike chronic viral infections, acute viral infections typically have a defined course, with immune activation aimed at eliminating the virus within days to weeks.

== How Did We Get There? ==

=== Root Causes: ===

* Direct Viral Exposure – Contact with an infected individual or contaminated surfaces.
* Weakened Immune System – Poor nutrition, stress, or inadequate sleep impairs viral defense.
* High Oxidative Stress – Increased inflammation and cellular damage can worsen viral load.
* Nutrient Deficiencies – Low levels of essential immune-supporting nutrients (Vitamin C, Zinc, etc.).
* Dysregulated Gut Microbiome – Imbalance in gut bacteria can impair systemic immunity.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===

* Fever and chills
* Fatigue and muscle aches
* Sore throat and congestion
* Cough and respiratory symptoms
* Swollen lymph nodes
* Headache and malaise

== Lab Test Findings ==
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Change'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Screen
|Negative
|Negative
|-
|Basophil Abs
|Increased
|0.00-0.07 10(3)/uL
|-
|Lymphocyte %
|Increased
|30.00-40.00 %
|-
|Lymphocyte Abs
|Increased
|0.57-3.97 10(3)/uL
|-
|Monocyte %
|Increased
|4.00-7.00 %
|-
|Neutrophil: Lymphocyte Ratio
|Decreased
|1.00-1.70
|-
|Neutrophil % 
|Slight Decrease
|48.00-60.00 %
|-
|WBC
|Increased or Normal 
|5.5-7.5 thousand/uL
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==

=== Functional Medicine Approach: ===
Supporting the immune system and reducing viral load through targeted interventions.

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''Function'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|N-Acetyl Cysteine
|Enhances glutathione production and detoxification
|1 capsule without food,  daily
|-
|V-Pax
|Supports mitochondrial health and immune resilience
|2 capsules without food, daily
|-
|Zinc
|Essential for antiviral defense and immune modulation
|1 capsule with food, daily
|-
|Vita Buff-C Caps
|Antioxidant protection and immune function support
|¼ scoop of powder without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Biotic
|High-dose probiotics to support gut-immune balance
|1 capsule without food, daily
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Hydration & Rest: Ensure proper recovery and immune function.
* Nutrient-Dense Diet: Prioritize whole foods rich in vitamins A, C, and D.
* Reduce Inflammatory Triggers: Avoid processed foods, sugar, and alcohol.
* Support Gut Health: Prebiotics and probiotics to enhance immune resilience.
* Manage Stress: Mindfulness, deep breathing, and adequate sleep to regulate immune response.