Rhinovirus, commonly known as the common cold, is a widespread respiratory virus. It is the most frequent cause of the common cold. While often mild, it can lead to more serious conditions in certain individuals. Infections occur year-round, peaking in fall and spring.
Typical Symptoms
Rhinovirus infections cause mild upper respiratory symptoms like a runny or congested nose, sneezing, sore throat, and cough. Some individuals may also experience mild body aches or a headache. Symptoms appear after an incubation period of 12 to 72 hours.
For most healthy individuals, these symptoms resolve within seven to ten days. Children may experience symptoms for up to two weeks, with cough and congestion sometimes lingering longer. A low-grade fever may be present in younger children but is uncommon in adults.
Populations at Higher Risk
While rhinovirus infections are mild for most, certain populations face a greater risk of severe illness. Infants and young children are vulnerable due to developing immune systems and smaller airways, potentially leading to more pronounced symptoms or longer recovery.
Older adults, especially those over 60, also face higher risk due to less robust immune systems and pre-existing health conditions. Individuals with weakened immune systems, whether from medical conditions or medications, similarly face increased risk as their bodies struggle to fight the virus.
People with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are another high-risk group. For them, rhinovirus can trigger an exacerbation of their condition, worsening respiratory symptoms. The virus can infect lower airways, intensifying inflammation and airflow obstruction in compromised lungs.
Serious Health Outcomes
While often associated with mild colds, rhinovirus can lead to serious health complications, especially in vulnerable populations. Bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, can occur in infants. This condition, characterized by wheezing and difficulty breathing, may require hospitalization in young children.
Pneumonia, an infection causing lung inflammation, is another serious outcome. This can be direct viral pneumonia or a secondary bacterial pneumonia. Rhinovirus is detected in many community-acquired pneumonia cases in adults and can cause severe pneumonia, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Rhinovirus commonly triggers exacerbations in individuals with chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. It is linked to a majority of asthma attacks, especially in children, and is the most frequently detected virus in COPD exacerbations, contributing to increased symptoms and longer recovery.
Ear infections (otitis media) and sinus infections (sinusitis) are also common complications. Viral inflammation can obstruct Eustachian tubes and sinuses, fostering secondary bacterial infections that prolong illness and may require medical intervention.
Supportive Care and When to Consult a Doctor
Managing a typical rhinovirus infection involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms. Rest and adequate hydration are important. Over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, fever reducers, nasal decongestants, and antihistamines can relieve discomfort. A cool-mist humidifier can also soothe a stuffy nose and sore throat.
While most infections resolve without medical intervention, certain warning signs require professional medical attention. These include difficulty breathing (wheezing or rapid breathing), chest pain, or a persistent high fever (above 38.5°C for over 48 hours, or any fever in an infant under three months).
Other concerning symptoms are a worsening cough, severe headache, severe sore throat making swallowing difficult, or symptoms that do not improve after 7-10 days or significantly worsen. For children, refusing fluids, signs of dehydration, or significantly fewer wet diapers also warrant consultation. These indicators suggest a more serious infection or developing complications.