Recently, cases of RSV have begun to peak in our communities. RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus, and affects nearly all children by age two. However, RSV is not only diagnosed in children and can actually affect people of all ages. If your child is sick with RSV symptoms, it is possible they can pass those symptoms onto you. Knowing the signs and symptoms of RSV and whether or not you’re in a high-risk group for a severe infection can help you find symptom relief. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst to learn more.
Symptoms of RSV in Adults
For most healthy adults who get RSV, the virus causes symptoms resembling a cold or the flu.
Mild RSV infection symptoms include:
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Stuffy / Runny nose
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Nasal congestion
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Sore throat
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Cough
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Mild fever
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Headache / Earaches
As most healthy adults will experience mild infections of RSV, some groups of people can experience more severe symptoms that could indicate complicated infections. A barking / wheezing cough or difficulty breathing are symptoms of severe infections that could lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Severe infections in adults, specifically those with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions, should be treated at emergency care.
High-Risk Groups for Severe RSV Infections
There are a few groups of adults that are at a higher-risk for severe RSV infections. Adults aged 65 and over that have weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions are at risk. Health conditions include heart or lung disease. Essentially, your risk of contracting severe infections depends on your age and medical history. When we get older, we have a lower respiratory reserve and less lung capacity.
Beyond leading to complications like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, severe RSV infections can also make chronic health conditions worse. This means any pre-existing symptoms of heart disease, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can worsen in conjunction with RSV symptoms.
How to Treat RSV in Adults
Mild to moderate infections of RSV can be treated at AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst. Our team of medical providers specialize in treating respiratory illnesses for people of all ages. Typically, a lot of at-home rest, fluid intake, and over the counter pain reliever can help alleviate symptoms. RSV can sometimes cause bacterial infections, which can be treated with prescribed antibiotics. Symptoms typically will pass on their own within a week or two. However, if you are in a high-risk group for complications, or if you find your symptoms are indicative of a more severe infection, you may need to seek emergency care.
Additionally, the best way to find symptom relief is through proper diagnosis. With AFC Lyndhurst’s on-site labs, our medical providers can examine your symptoms and accurately diagnose whether you;re dealing with RSV or something else. To best prevent RSV, practice good hygiene, hand washing, and avoid others that you know are sick or infected with RSV.
Contact AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst for Treatment
If you are experiencing any RSV symptoms, visit AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst today with no appointment necessary. We can diagnose RSV in adults and offer some treatment options and advice for mild cases. AFC Lyndhurst is open seven days a week, with walk-in visits always welcomed and most major insurance carriers accepted. Low-cost treatment is available for self-paying patients. For more information about RSV, or other urgent care services we provide, call us directly at (201) 345-3839.
