If you are a new parent or have small children in your home, there’s a good chance that you know about RSV. It is a common illness in childhood that can sometimes produce really dangerous symptoms or complications.
In order to keep your baby safe from RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, you have to be diligent about watching any symptom progression and taking action if you notice if the situation worsens. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway can help you better understand what a severe RSV infection looks like below.
Where Does RSV Settle in the Body?
When your baby is infected with RSV, his or her lungs and upper respiratory tract will start to become irritated and inflamed. Any time your baby experiences inflammation in his or her tiny airway, it can be dangerous and even deadly.
If your baby starts to experience complications or if the infection travels into the lower respiratory tract, it can cause pneumonia or bronchiolitis. When that happens, an already delicate situation can become a medical emergency really quickly. If you start to notice your baby experience mild cold-like symptoms, keep a close eye on him or her.
The Onset of RSV Symptoms
- Runny nose
- Decreased appetite
- Wheezing or coughing
- Fever
Should I Call a Medical Provider if I Think My Baby Has RSV?
Not all RSV infections will become severe, so if your baby is just experiencing some simple cold symptoms but otherwise seems fine, you probably don’t need to make an appointment right away. However, if you start to notice that his or her symptoms aren’t improving or you notice any trouble breathing, it is time to seek medical attention.
If your baby is struggling to breathe, it can certainly be obvious and alarming, but it could also be subtle to begin with. It may start with rapid or shallow breaths or chest retractions, and your baby’s skin color could pale from normal to a blue or grayish color. Any time that you notice this happening, you need to seek medical care immediately.
Keeping Your Infant Healthy
- Cover your cough or sneeze.
- Avoid kissing your baby on the face if you are sick.
- Don’t let other people kiss your baby.
- Wash your hands often.
- Ask people to wash their hands before holding your baby.
RSV should always be taken seriously. If you are concerned about the health of your infant, come visit us right away at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway.
