The Dangers of Delaying Care for Seniors

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can be more than just a common cold for older adults. It can quickly lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening complications.

Older adults face a higher risk of severe RSV complications because their immune systems aren’t as strong as they used to be. If they have pre-existing conditions like COPD, asthma, or heart disease, the risk is even higher.

RSV symptoms can mimic a cold or the flu, including coughing, sneezing, fever, and a runny nose. For older adults, these symptoms can turn into difficulty breathing and wheezing (a high pitched whistling sound when exhaling.)

To help prevent pneumonia or other serious complications, be on the lookout for signs that your RSV infection is getting worse. Get medical attention right away if you have shortness of breath, wheezing, a worsening cough, or there is a bluish tint to your skin (a sign of reduced oxygen in the blood.)

RSV can lead to severe health problems such as pneumonia or respiratory failure, when your breathing becomes more difficult, and less oxygen enters the bloodstream. It may also cause congestive heart failure. If you have asthma, COPD, or heart failure, RSV can make your condition worse.

Doctors often diagnose people based on a physical exam and the time of year the symptoms occur. For moderate or serious RSV in older adults, they may also use a rapid diagnostic test. This involves taking a nasal sample and testing it to determine what type of virus you have.

Home remedies include plenty of rest, lots of fluids, and keeping a humidifier handy. You can also use pain relievers like ibuprofen. If symptoms worsen, you may need to go to the hospital for oxygen therapy and fluids.

You can help prevent RSV by washing your hands, disinfecting surfaces, and using hand sanitizer. The best way to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for all adults ages 75 and older, and for people ages 60-74 who have certain health conditions.