Each year in the United States, millions of people become infected by a trifecta of respiratory viruses, namely influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The flu alone causes, on average, between 9 and 41 million illnesses in the United States each year.
Not only that, but these numbers tend to spike during the winter as people move indoors and gather in smaller confined spaces, which makes it easier to spread viruses.
Since winter is in full swing and respiratory viruses are making their unwelcome rounds, Dr. Scott Lafferty and the team at Lafferty Family Care want to look at when it’s a good idea to seek help for your virus. While letting a virus run its course is usually sufficient, there are times when a respiratory virus can become problematic.
The symptoms associated with the flu, COVID-19, and RSV are very similar and include:
These symptoms tend to develop quickly and strongly and they can linger for a couple days or a couple weeks. No matter how long they linger, they should gradually improve.
If you’re experiencing symptoms that aren’t getting any better or they’re getting worse, it’s time to come see us.
There’s often some difficulty breathing when you have a respiratory virus because, as the name suggests, the viruses set up in your respiratory tract and can cause congestion.
If your breathing trouble goes beyond simple congestion and you’re really struggling to breathe, come see us sooner rather than later.
A fever indicates your body is fighting an infection, and there’s usually no reason for concern. In fact, most people develop a fever on the heels of the flu, COVID-19, or RSV, and it spikes and then goes down. If the fever returns, however, this signals that your body is struggling to contain the respiratory infection, and you should come see us.
Also, if you develop a fever of 103°F or 104°F or higher and it persists for more than a couple of days, it’s a good idea to contact us. Please note that any fever in toddlers and infants of 100°F or higher warrants a medical visit.
If your immune system isn’t strong, you may struggle more than most to fight off common respiratory viruses. For example, if you’re undergoing cancer treatment or have an autoimmune disease, you may need some help fighting off respiratory viruses.
If you have a pre-existing health condition that’s affected by the virus, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which weakens your lungs, respiratory viruses can be much more serious. In these cases, you need a higher standard of care, and vaccinations, such as flu shots, are a good idea.
Ultimately, we want you to use your good judgment and err on the side of caution. If you feel like your respiratory virus isn’t run-of-the-mill, contact our office in Rogers, Arkansas, today.
