Sneezing and coughing? Is it a common cold or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)? These conditions are similar and share many symptoms that overlap, making it difficult to self-diagnose. This guide will give you a deeper understanding of how both differ.

For same-day illness diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City– no appointment required! We’re open seven days a week and specialize in treating a wide range of conditions. Just stop by at your convenience.

What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

RSV is a common virus that commonly develops contagious infections in humans. Most of the infections are benign and cause symptoms similar to the common cold. RSV most commonly affects younger children and older adults, but the virus can be contracted by people of all ages. The symptoms typically last for about a week and you can generally recover without any serious medical treatment or procedure.

What is a Common Cold?

Similar to RSV, a cold is a very common infection. For adults, having two to three colds every year is fairly normal. Children who are more vulnerable and have sensitive immune systems tend to have colds more often. Most colds can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, rest, and plenty of hydration. Healthy children and adults typically recover within a week, while those with underlying health conditions may have more prolonged symptoms.

Differences Between Common Cold and RSV

The differences between common cold and RSV are as follows:

1. Cause: The common cold can be caused by a variety of viruses, the most common being rhinoviruses. RSV is only caused by the respiratory syncytial virus.

2. Symptoms: Common cold symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, and sometimes a mild cough. RSV symptoms can be more severe– including coughing, wheezing, fever, and breathing difficulties.

3. Age Group Affected: Colds can affect people of all ages, but they are usually milder in healthy adults. RSV can be particularly dangerous for infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

4. Transmission: Both the common cold and RSV spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces.

5. Treatment: Treatments for the common cold usually focus on relieving symptoms with fluids, rest, and OTC medications for congestion or discomfort. RSV follows a similar treatment regimen to the cold, but IV fluids could be necessary in severe cases.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Union City For Same-Day Care

If you or someone you know has cold-like symptoms and you believe it could be RSV, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis. Visit AFC Urgent Care Union City for walk-in RSV testing and care. We’re open every day of the week, making urgent care accessible when you need it. Don’t leave your family’s health up to chance and let your symptoms get the best of you this winter. Visit our urgent care center with no appointment necessary. Call now for more information at (551) 257-1948.