As parents, it’s our job to protect our children as best we can. When it comes to illness, that can be difficult! It can be especially hard when there are so many different kinds of illnesses and sicknesses at this time of year.

One illness that all parents need to watch for is respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. RSV symptoms can vary widely from simple cold-like symptoms to trouble breathing. It can be a very dangerous virus to an infant or small child.

If you are wondering what warning signs to look out for that indicate a severe case of RSV, read on for the details from our AFC Urgent Care Fountain City team.

What Happens to Your Body When You Have RSV?

The virus that causes RSV typically settles into the lungs or other breathing passageways. It can cause irritation to those sensitive tissues, but most adults will just experience some minor cold symptoms and not think twice about an alternate diagnosis.

If you have an infant in your home, though, RSV is an entirely different story. Since an infant’s airways and breathing passages are so small, irritation or inflammation of any kind can be really dangerous and even deadly. Any time your baby’s breathing is affected, it is important to watch for any worsening or rapidly changing symptoms and seek medical assistance right away.

Early Signs of RSV

• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Wheezing or coughing
• Fever

When Should I Worry About RSV Symptoms?

The above symptoms alone don’t necessarily require an urgent medical visit, but they may be the beginning stages of a more severe reaction later. Whenever you notice those symptoms paired with your baby struggling to breathe properly, that indicates an emergency.

Trouble breathing may look like shallow or rapid breaths, chest retractions, or a blue and grayish pallor. You are the expert on your baby, so you will know when something doesn’t look quite right in your little one!

Reduce the Risk Of RSV

• Don’t kiss your baby while you are sick.
• Wash your hands.
• Don’t let others kiss your baby.
• Cover your sneeze or cough.

RSV can become dangerous quickly. If you are concerned about the health of your infant, come visit us right away at AFC Urgent Care Fountain City.