Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness that can affect individuals across all age groups, including adults. While often associated with severe illness in infants, RSV can also cause a range of symptoms in adults. This article clarifies the typical duration of RSV in adults, its course, common symptoms, and management.
Understanding RSV’s Course in Adults
The duration of RSV symptoms in adults typically spans one to two weeks. For many healthy individuals, the illness resolves within this timeframe, presenting as a mild, cold-like infection. Symptoms are often at their most intense around three to five days after they begin, before gradually improving.
Older adults and those with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions, such as chronic heart or lung disease, may experience a more prolonged and severe illness. In these cases, recovery could take longer than the typical one to two weeks, and some symptoms, particularly a cough, might linger for several weeks even after the primary infection has cleared. The virus can sometimes cause tissue damage that requires more time to heal, contributing to these lasting symptoms.
Common Adult RSV Symptoms
Adults commonly experience symptoms that resemble a typical cold or flu when infected with RSV. Initial signs often include a runny nose, nasal congestion, and a sore throat. A cough is also common, which can sometimes be significant and wet, indicating the virus has moved into the lower airways.
Other symptoms that may develop include sneezing, headache, low-grade fever, and fatigue. The intensity of these symptoms can vary, and they often appear in stages. While some adults may experience only a few mild symptoms, others might develop a more comprehensive set of indicators as the illness progresses.
When to Seek Medical Care
While most adults recover from RSV at home, it is important to recognize when medical attention is necessary. Warning signs indicating a potentially more severe infection include difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, severe wheezing, chest pain, a high or persistent fever, or symptoms that worsen.
Individuals who are at higher risk for severe RSV should be particularly vigilant for any concerning symptoms. This group includes older adults (especially over 65), people with chronic lung conditions (like asthma or COPD), heart disease, and individuals with weakened immune systems. If any of these high-risk individuals develop RSV symptoms, even mild ones, consulting a healthcare professional promptly is advisable.
Supporting Recovery at Home
Managing RSV symptoms at home primarily involves supportive care to help the body recover naturally. Adequate rest is important, allowing the immune system to focus on fighting the virus. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions helps prevent dehydration and can thin mucus, easing congestion.
Over-the-counter medications can provide relief from specific symptoms. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and body aches. Cough suppressants may be used for bothersome coughs, and saline nasal sprays or cool-mist humidifiers can alleviate nasal congestion and discomfort. Honey can also soothe a sore throat and cough for adults.