Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that affects people of all ages. For many, RSV causes mild cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, or cough. However, in some individuals, RSV infection can lead to more serious health risks and complications that require medical care.
Gaining a warm understanding of RSV complications, who may be more vulnerable, and when to seek care empowers you to help yourself or loved ones stay safe and get timely support.
Why RSV Can Start Mild but Worsen
RSV often begins as an upper respiratory illness that resembles the common cold. Early RSV symptoms may include congestion, a runny nose, cough, and low-grade fever. In many cases, these mild symptoms improve within one to two weeks.
In some individuals, however, respiratory syncytial virus infection can spread to the lower respiratory tract. This can trigger inflammation, increased mucus production, and breathing difficulty. When symptoms worsen instead of improving, RSV may progress to a more serious illness, especially in people with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems.
Common RSV Complications
While many people recover without issues, RSV can lead to several complications, particularly in infants, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions.
Bronchiolitis
RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis in young children. This condition causes inflammation of the small airways, leading to wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Young infants are especially vulnerable because their airways are smaller and more easily obstructed.
Pneumonia
In severe cases, RSV can cause pneumonia, a lung infection that may lead to high fever, chest pain, worsening cough, and shortness of breath. RSV pneumonia can result in a hospital stay, particularly for those at higher risk.
Ear Infections
RSV infection can also lead to ear infections, especially in young children. Symptoms may include ear pain, irritability, and trouble sleeping or eating.
Breathing Complications to Watch For
Changes in breathing are among the most important warning signs of severe RSV illness. Seek medical evaluation if you notice rapid or labored breathing, wheezing, chest retractions, or persistent coughing. In infants, signs such as trouble eating, poor feeding, or pauses in breathing can signal a serious issue.
Low oxygen levels and increasing fatigue may also indicate that RSV is affecting the lungs more significantly.
Who Is at Higher Risk for RSV Complications?
RSV can affect anyone, but certain groups have an increased risk of developing severe RSV disease or life-threatening complications.
Higher-risk groups include:
- Young infants, especially those under 6 months old.
- Premature babies.
- Older adults, particularly adults aged 65 and older.
- People with chronic lung disease, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Individuals with heart or lung disease, including congestive heart failure or chronic heart disease.
- People with weakened immune systems, including adults with chronic medical conditions.
- Residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities.
These individuals have a higher risk of severe RSV infection and should seek care promptly if symptoms worsen.
Signs RSV Is Becoming More Serious
RSV symptoms that may indicate serious illness include:
- Symptoms lasting longer than expected or worsening after initial improvement
- High fever or fever returning.
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
- Bluish lips or fingernails.
- Extreme fatigue or difficulty waking.
- Dehydration or trouble eating in children.
If these symptoms appear, evaluation by a healthcare provider is important.
When to Go to Urgent Care for RSV Complications
Urgent care can evaluate RSV symptoms that are concerning but not immediately life-threatening. Consider urgent care if RSV coughs worsen, breathing becomes more difficult, fever persists, or symptoms interfere with eating, drinking, or sleep. Urgent care providers can assess symptoms, perform a physical exam, and determine whether further treatment is needed.
RSV may be diagnosed with a nasal swab, and care focuses on symptom relief and prevention of complications.
When RSV Requires Emergency Care
Emergency care is necessary for severe RSV cases involving significant breathing distress, low oxygen levels, severe lethargy, chest pain, or signs of dehydration that cannot be managed at home. These situations may require hospitalization, oxygen therapy, or advanced breathing support.
If symptoms feel life-threatening or rapidly worsen, seek emergency care immediately.
How RSV Complications Are Evaluated and Treated
RSV is treated with supportive care, as there is no specific medication that cures the virus. Treatment depends on symptoms and severity and may include hydration support, fever management, breathing treatments, or oxygen monitoring.
In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to manage complications such as pneumonia or severe RSV disease. Most people recover fully, though cough and fatigue may persist for up to 4 weeks in some cases.
Preventing RSV Complications
RSV spreads through close contact with an infected person, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces. Steps to prevent RSV include frequent handwashing, cleaning commonly touched surfaces, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when ill.
Vaccination and immunization options are now available for certain groups. The CDC recommends RSV vaccination or preventive treatments for older adults, pregnant people, and some high-risk infants to reduce the risk of severe RSV illness. A healthcare professional can help determine what prevention options are appropriate.
Why Choose +MEDRITE Urgent Care for RSV Concerns
+MEDRITE Urgent Care provides timely evaluation for RSV symptoms and complications in both children and adults. Our healthcare professionals assess breathing, hydration, and overall condition to help determine whether symptoms can be managed at home or require higher-level care.
Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments are also available for added convenience.
Don’t Ignore RSV Symptoms That Are Getting Worse
While RSV often causes mild illness, complications can develop, especially in people with higher risk factors. If symptoms worsen, breathing becomes difficult, or something doesn’t feel right, seeking medical care early can help prevent serious illness and support recovery.
+MEDRITE Urgent Care is here to help you stay informed, supported, and healthy when RSV symptoms raise concern.