RSV- Respiratory Syncytial Virus

12

Nov

2022

Terms: Health Concerns, In the News

RSV- Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Dr. Michael Kane

This common viral infection has been making some infants and toddlers very sick. This virus can impact the lungs, it can cause inflammation in the smallest passages of the lungs, the bronchioles.

RSV is most common from fall to spring. This virus spreads VERY easily, this virus is so common that by the age of 2 almost every child has had an RSV infection of one form or another.

RSV can be spread by coughing or sneezing near your baby or child. Keeping in mind basic hygiene can be really important in preventing RSV infection: washing your hands and having others wash their hands before touching your baby and washing your baby’s and child’s toys on a frequent basis can all go a long way in preventing RSV.

Symptoms- RSV generally starts with mild cold-like symptoms (think congestion and mild cough) and for most of those infected that is where it ends. But in some children and infants the infection can be more significant causing fever, moderate cough, lots of congestion, and wheezing.

More severe signs and symptoms can include troubled breathing. These would include the observation of gasping for breath, flaring of the nostrils, caving in of the chest muscles when breathing.

If you notice any of these signs your child should be seen by a doctor because they are working extra hard to breath.

Factors that matter

Premature infants are at a higher risk.

Also, those with a history of congenital heart or lung disease will also be at increased risk for RSV.

Nutritional deficiencies can increase risk and the immune systems ability to respond to infection.

High sugar intake can impact immune system response.

Treatment

Allopathic treatment includes the usual recommendations for viral infections.

According to CDC “Care for RSV”

https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/symptoms.html

Most RSV infections go away on their own in a week or two. There is no specific treatment for RSV infection, though researchers are working to develop vaccines and antivirals (medicines that fight viruses). Take steps to relieve symptoms

Manage fever and pain with over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. (Never give aspirin to children.)
Drink enough fluids. It is important for people with RSV infection to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration (loss of body fluids).
Talk to your healthcare provider before giving your child nonprescription cold medicines. Some medicines contain ingredients that are not good for children.

Naturopathic Support

Correct nutrient deficiencies
1. Vitamin A
2. Zinc
3. Vitamin D
Support immune system
1. Elderberry
2. Licorice Root tea/extract
3. Quercetin

Mucolytic (break up mucous and congestion)
1. Nasal suction
2. N-acetyl Cysteine- natural mucolytic and lung support

If you are interested in talking to one of our physicians about prevention and immune support, please call and make an appointment. 860-347-8600

References

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