Respiratory Syncytial Virus: RSV? Know why your kid is coughing and sneezing as season changes |
Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a very common respiratory illness, is very crucial with reference to newborns as the prevalence of the illness in newborns is very high.
RSV is a common cause of respiratory illness in newborns and young children. RSV infections are particularly concerning for infants due to their delicate and developing respiratory systems.
Why are newborns and kids easily infected by RSV?
RSV is highly contagious and can spread easily among young children. Newborns are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are still maturing, making it harder for them to fight infections.
RSV tends to circulate more frequently in colder months, leading to seasonal outbreaks. This virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, but it can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.
Common symptoms of RSV seen in kids
The symptoms of RSV can range from mild to severe, often beginning with those similar to a common cold. Early signs may include a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. As the infection progresses, more pronounced symptoms can develop.
Parents might notice their infant becoming increasingly irritable and having trouble breathing. The cough may become more persistent, and the child might exhibit a high fever.
In more severe cases, RSV can lead to wheezing, rapid or shallow breathing, and a noticeable difficulty in breathing, which is a sign of bronchiolitis—a common complication in infants.
RSV can sometimes cause the airway to become inflamed and obstructed, making breathing difficult.
Observing whether the baby is breathing rapidly, if there are any retractions of the chest (where the skin pulls in around the ribs during breathing), or if there’s a bluish tint to the skin (cyanosis) can be indicators of a more severe infection. These signs warrant immediate medical attention.
How to deal with RSV at home?
For mild cases, maintaining hydration is key. Ensure that your baby drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Keeping the air moist with a cool-mist humidifier can help ease breathing difficulties and soothe a dry, irritated throat. Using saline nasal drops can relieve nasal congestion, making it easier for your baby to breathe and feed.
When dealing with RSV, it’s also beneficial to practice good hygiene. Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with others who are sick can help prevent the spread of the virus. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, especially those that are frequently touched, can reduce the risk of infection. Ensuring that your baby avoids exposure to secondhand smoke is also crucial, as smoke can exacerbate respiratory issues and make an RSV infection more severe.
Do not delay taking a doctor’s appointment if you notice this
If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a high fever that doesn’t subside with medication seeking medical advice is important.
Hospitalization might be required for infants with severe RSV infections. In such cases, doctors may use various treatments such as bronchodilators to open up the airways and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. In very severe situations, mechanical ventilation may be necessary to assist with breathing.
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If your baby has had RSV, keeping an eye on their recovery is also essential. Follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that your baby is healing properly and to address any lingering concerns. While most infants recover from RSV with time and supportive care, it’s vital to remain vigilant and proactive about their health.
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