Respiratory syncytial virus, better known as RSV, is often thought of as a virus that only affects babies. But adults get RSV too, and for older adults and people with chronic health conditions, it can be serious.
In most healthy adults, RSV feels like a common cold and clears up in 1 to 2 weeks. However, some adults develop pneumonia, breathing trouble, or worsening heart and lung problems that need urgent care. If you or a loved one has trouble breathing, our Livingston emergency room is open 24/7 with an ER wait time of 15 minutes or less.
What Is RSV?
RSV is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads through coughs, sneezes, and touching contaminated surfaces, and it can live on hard surfaces for hours. In Texas, RSV season usually starts in the fall and peaks in the winter months.
According to the CDC, RSV leads to an estimated 100,000 to 150,000 hospitalizations and 6,000 to 10,000 deaths among adults 65 and older in the United States each year.
Common RSV Symptoms In Adults
- Runny or stuffy nose: often the first sign.
- Cough: may be dry or bring up mucus.
- Sore throat: usually mild.
- Low-grade fever: not everyone gets one.
- Headache and fatigue: can last several days.
- Sneezing: similar to a cold.
Dangerous RSV Symptoms In Adults
RSV becomes dangerous when the infection moves into the lower airways and lungs. Watch for these warning signs:
- Shortness of breath: trouble catching your breath, even at rest.
- Wheezing: a whistling sound when breathing.
- Fast breathing: breathing much faster than normal.
- High fever: a fever that is high or does not go away. Visit the ER for a high fever that comes with confusion or trouble breathing.
- Bluish lips or fingertips: a sign of low oxygen.
- Chest pain or pressure: especially with coughing or breathing.
- Confusion or extreme drowsiness: especially in older adults.
- Worsening of chronic conditions: such as flare-ups of COPD, asthma, or heart failure.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Adults 60 and older.
- People with chronic lung disease, such as COPD or asthma.
- People with heart disease or congestive heart failure.
- People with diabetes or kidney disease.
- People with weakened immune systems.
- Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
Possible Complications
In high-risk adults, RSV can lead to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and severe flare-ups of asthma, COPD, and heart failure. It can also lower oxygen levels enough to require hospital care.
Older adults may not have the typical cold symptoms at first. Instead, they may simply seem weaker, more tired, or more confused than usual. Family members and caregivers should watch for these subtle changes, especially in a loved one who lives alone or in a care facility, and seek medical care early when something seems off.
How RSV Is Diagnosed And Treated
Doctors can diagnose RSV with a nasal swab, often as part of a combined test for flu and COVID-19. A chest X-ray and blood oxygen check may be needed if your symptoms are severe.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for RSV in adults. Treatment focuses on easing symptoms and supporting breathing:
- Rest and fluids.
- Over-the-counter fever reducers.
- Breathing treatments for wheezing.
- Oxygen therapy if oxygen levels are low.
- IV fluids for dehydration.
When To Go To The ER
Call 911 or go to the nearest ER right away if you have severe shortness of breath, bluish lips, chest pain, confusion, or a high fever that will not come down. Adults over 60 and those with heart or lung disease should seek care early rather than waiting for symptoms to get worse.
How To Prevent RSV
- Ask your doctor about the RSV vaccine. The CDC recommends it for all adults 75 and older, and for adults 50 to 74 at increased risk.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does RSV Last In Adults?
Most adults feel better within 1 to 2 weeks, though a cough can linger longer.
Is RSV Contagious In Adults?
Yes. People with RSV are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days, and some can spread it for up to 4 weeks.
Can You Get RSV More Than Once?
Yes. RSV infections can happen many times throughout life.
Is RSV Worse Than The Flu For Older Adults?
Both can be serious. RSV can be just as dangerous as the flu for adults over 65 and people with chronic health conditions.
Fast Respiratory Care In Livingston, TX
Most cases of RSV in adults are mild, but warning signs like trouble breathing should never be ignored. Exceptional Emergency Center provides on-site labs, imaging, and breathing treatments for patients in Livingston and the surrounding Polk County area.
If you need the closest emergency room, Exceptional Emergency Center is ready 24/7. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 right away.