Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that is quite common. This virus creates a respiratory infection, and both children and adults can become affected by RSV.
The infections caused by RSV are often apperas symptoms from the common cold. Did you know that children at the age of 2 and younger are most often taken to the hospital as a result from catching RSV? The bad news is there is no effective treatment for RSV, nor is there a vaccine for it.
The way to treat RSV is to treat its symptoms. One of the symptoms is dehydration, so it is recommended to drink fluids with electrolytes on a regular basis. Do not use sugary sports drinks and similar, because they have too much sugar in them, and not enough calories and essential minerals that your body needs.
One of the symptoms of RSV are fever and headaches. You can safely use Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, etc. Children with RSV should never take Aspirin, so keep that in mind. The reason is because Aspirin can sometimes lead to the potentially fatal Reye??Ts syndrome.
Remind your child to blow their nose frequently. For infants, you can use a bulb syringe to suction the mucus from the nasal passages.
Make sure that your child gets plenty of rest and sleep. During sleep, the body repairs itself the best. Furthermore, to help prevent spreading of the virus, frequent hand washing is important.
If you notice your child is dehydrate or has trouble breathing, immediately take the child to a hospital. There could be a need for respiratory help and other medical treatments.
Doctors sometimes prescribe and antiviral medicine called Ribavirin, at the time they are in the hospital. This is not frequently done, however.
When the infection is especially difficult, some people may need special treatment to help them with breathing difficulties. You should contact your doctor as soon as possible, if you think there is a need for this.
Although antibiotics are not usually given for RSV infections, there could be a need for this, if you or your child develop complications. These complications could for example be an ear infection, or similar. In such a case, you may get an antibiotic prescription from your doctor. Remember to never stop giving antibiotic medicine when you or your child is starting to feel better, if the prescribed medicine is not used up. It is very important to take the entire prescription in order to completely get rid the bacteria. Otherwhise, the infection may return and you are back to square one.
As a parent, remember to also take care of yourself. It can very exhausting to care for a sick child, and you will likely get very tired, both physically and emotionally. You must make sure you are well rested so that you can best assist your child in overcoming their RSV infection.
Premature babies can in some cases get severe respiratory problems. This can also happpen to elderly people, especially those with heart and lung diseases.
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Now that you know more about how to treat RSV symptoms , be aware of these signs in people close to you, especially chilren, and follow the guidelines. Always contact your doctor if you have concerns. Learn more about rsv virus , RSV Treatment and symptoms at http://rsvvirus.org