When my child first fell sick with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), I almost mistook it for just another bad cold. But within a day, things escalated — the wheezing started, the breathing looked harder, and we knew it was something more serious.
If you’re a parent reading this in a rush (because you probably are), here’s a quick guide to what RSV is, how it shows up and what to watch for.
What is RSV?
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common respiratory virus that causes infections in the lungs and breathing passages. For most adults and older children, it feels like a regular cold. But in babies, toddlers, and young kids, RSV can sometimes lead to more serious conditions like bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
You usually can’t tell just by looking — RSV symptoms can look exactly like a regular cold at first. Doctors can confirm it with a quick nasal swab test, if needed, especially if breathing symptoms worsen or hospitalisation is considered.
Common symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Coughing and sneezing
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Wheezing or rapid breathing
- Flared nostrils or chest sinking in with each breath (signs of respiratory distress)
It often starts like a mild cold, but can get worse suddenly, especially around Day 3 to Day 5.
When should you see a doctor?
You should seek medical help if your child:
- Is breathing faster than usual, or struggling to breathe
- Seems unusually tired or listless
- Refuses to drink fluids
- Has blue lips or fingernails
- Is pulling in at the chest, ribs, or neck with each breath (retractions)
Our experienced paediatrician also pointed out something we hadn’t noticed before: tummy breathing. When a child is working very hard to breathe, you might see their stomach rising and falling dramatically with each breath — a sign that their body is trying to pull in more air. It’s subtle if you’re not looking for it, but once you know, you know.
(And if you see it, it’s definitely time to head to the doctor or the emergency room).
Skip to Little Notes below to read about the tummy trick
— a simple way to spot if your child might be struggling to breathe.
What helps (and what to expect)
If your doctor says it’s a mild case and that it’s safe to care for your child at home, then
- Keep them hydrated (offer frequent small sips of water or milk)
- Use a humidifier to keep the air moist
- Suction out nasal mucus if needed (saline spray + nasal aspirator works wonders)
- Let them rest as much as they need
In some cases, if there’s wheezing or difficulty breathing, doctors may prescribe inhalers like salbutamol (Ventolin) to open up the airways, or preventive inhaled steroids like fluticasone (Flixotide) to ease inflammation. (We personally had to use these under our paediatrician’s guidance.)
There’s no specific cure for RSV itself — it’s mostly about supportive care until the virus runs its course.
Monitor closely
When dealing with RSV (or any respiratory illness), it’s important to monitor your child closely — especially in the evenings and at night, when breathing can sometimes worsen.
Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to seek medical help if something feels off.
RSV can sound scary — and when you’re in it, it feels even scarier. But most kids recover fully with rest, fluids and careful monitoring. Take care!
Little Notes
Watch their tummy: One simple trick I learned from our PD was to watch how your child’s tummy moves when they cough or breathe. If you notice the tummy sucking in deeply — especially just below the ribs — it could mean they’re working too hard to breathe.
This is called “recessed breathing” or “tummy sucking,” and it’s a sign to bring your child to the doctor right away. Not sure what it looks like? You can find helpful videos online by searching “recessed breathing in infants” — it helps to know what to look out for, especially in the middle of the night when you’re second-guessing everything.
DISCLAIMER:
This post is written from one parent to another, based on lived experiences. It’s meant to offer comfort and support — but not to replace medical advice. If you’re unsure about your child’s symptoms or care, please consult your doctor or a healthcare professional you trust.
This Little Season 