Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is one of the most common causes of respiratory illness in babies and young children. In many cases, RSV looks like a mild cold, but sometimes it progresses into bronchiolitis; a more serious infection that affects the small airways in the lungs. Because bronchiolitis can develop quickly, parents need to understand the early warning signs, how RSV leads to this condition, and what steps to take to keep their child safe. Recognising the symptoms early can make all the difference in preventing complications and ensuring timely treatment.
For same-day illness testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our board-certified medical providers specialize in general illness treatment for patients of all ages. We’re open 7 days a week– simply walk-in or save your spot below!
How Does RSV Cause Bronchiolitis?
RSV begins in the upper respiratory tract, causing runny nose, sneezing, and mild cough. As the virus spreads deeper into the lungs, it inflames and swells the bronchioles, the tiny air passages responsible for moving air in and out. This swelling narrows the airways, making it harder for young children, especially infants, to breathe comfortably. Because their airways are already small, even minor inflammation from RSV can quickly lead to significant breathing difficulty, which is why bronchiolitis is so common in babies under two years old.
How Do I Know If My Child Has Bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis usually starts like a regular cold, but after a couple of days, symptoms intensify. Parents may notice that the cough becomes deeper and more persistent, breathing becomes faster, and the child works harder to catch their breath. You might see the skin between the ribs or under the ribcage pulling inward with each breath, or hear wheezing, a whistling sound when breathing out. Babies may feed poorly, become unusually tired, or show decreased wet diapers. These signs suggest that RSV has moved beyond a mild infection and is affecting the small airways.
Preventing Bronchiolitis
Prevention begins with avoiding RSV exposure as much as possible. Keeping infants away from crowded places during RSV season, encouraging regular handwashing, cleaning toys and surfaces, and limiting close contact with people who have cold-like symptoms are essential steps. Breastfeeding, when possible, also strengthens a baby’s immune system. For high-risk infants, such as premature babies or children with heart or lung conditions, doctors may recommend RSV preventive medication to reduce the severity of illness.
How Is Bronchiolitis Treated?
There is no specific antiviral medication for bronchiolitis, so treatment focuses on supporting the child’s breathing and comfort. This may include keeping them well-hydrated, using saline nose drops with gentle suctioning, and ensuring they get plenty of rest. In more severe cases, especially when breathing becomes difficult, hospital care may be necessary for oxygen support or monitoring. Most children recover within one to two weeks with proper care.
Reasons to Visit Urgent Care
Parents should bring their child to urgent care if breathing becomes noticeably harder, faster, or noisier, or if the child struggles to feed due to shortness of breath. Persistent wheezing, a fever that doesn’t improve, signs of dehydration, or reduced wet diapers also require prompt evaluation. If the child becomes unusually sleepy, pale, or shows any bluish tint around the lips or fingertips, urgent medical attention is essential. Visiting urgent care early ensures that the child receives timely care, prevents worsening symptoms, and provides parents with reassurance and proper guidance.
Get Same-Day RSV Testing at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove in Cedar Grove, NJ
While mild RSV cases can be managed at home, persistent or worsening symptoms should be treated promptly. Early medical intervention can help prevent serious complications like bronchiolitis and ensure a faster recovery. At AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove, we provide illness testing and treatment 7 days a week– just walk-in! Don't hesitate to seek care if your symptoms worsen or become unmanageable. Most major health insurances are accepted. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact us directly at (973) 239-2300.
