If you or your child are experiencing difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention immediately by visiting the emergency room. If you have symptoms of the respiratory syncytial virus and are over the age of 65 or have a compromised immune system, a heart condition, or a lung condition, it is important to contact your healthcare provider. RSV can sometimes progress to a severe infection that requires treatment from a healthcare provider. It is important to take prompt action to address any potential respiratory issues.
Treatment Options
To diagnose RSV, a healthcare provider will review your medical history and assess your symptoms. They may perform a physical examination, including listening to your lungs with a stethoscope and checking your oxygen level with a pulse oximeter (a device that measures oxygen saturation in the blood using a sensor placed on the finger).
They may also collect a sample of mucus from your nose or mouth using a cotton swab or take a blood sample to look for signs of infection. If the provider suspects a more severe illness, they may order additional blood or urine tests or imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the condition of your lungs. After diagnosing RSV, the right treatment plan is set up. Options include:
- Taking otc medications, like ibuprofen
- Drinking plenty of water
- Not smoking or vaping
- Use a mist vaporizer
- Using saline nasal drops
- Resting
If the RSV is severe, treatment options are also more invasive, and include:
- Getting extra oxygen
- Getting fluids via IV
- Removing mucus from the airways
- Antivirals to fight the virus
Is RSV preventable?
There are several ways to help prevent the spread of respiratory syncytial virus:
- Cover your cough using a tissue or coughing into the fabric of your shirt instead of your hands.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with others, especially those who have the virus.
- Clean and sanitize frequently touched surfaces, objects, and toys.
- Keep children home from school or daycare when they or other children are sick.
- If you have a child at high risk for developing severe RSV, try to limit their time in large social settings during the RSV season.
For more information about respiratory syncytial virus, possible treatment options, and the difference between RSV and other respiratory infection, start your search here:
