RSV wheezing and cough: what to know

RSV is a respiratory virus. A cough may begin with a runny nose and congestion, while swelling and mucus in smaller airways can produce a whistling sound. Bronchiolitis is a common RSV-related illness in infants and young children. Wheezing can also occur with asthma, acute bronchitis, allergic rhinitis, or COPD, so the sound alone does not identify its cause.

A clinician may listen to the chest and assess breathing rate, oxygen level, feeding, and hydration. A nebuliser treatment may be considered in selected situations, but it is not suitable for every cough or wheeze.

Offer frequent fluids or feeds and keep the person upright when awake. Saline drops and gentle nasal clearing may make feeding easier for a congested infant. Keep smoke, strong scents, and other airway irritants away. Follow prescribed medicines exactly, and do not give a child cough medicine unless a clinician has advised it. Wash hands and avoid close contact with vulnerable people while respiratory symptoms are present.

Seek urgent help for struggling or unusually fast breathing, ribs pulling in, pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe drowsiness, or inability to drink. Arrange prompt medical assessment if a baby is feeding poorly, has fewer wet nappies, or wheezing is new or worsening. A child with an underlying lung or heart condition may need earlier review.

Ask what is causing the wheeze, how to count concerning breathing changes, which fluids and medicines are appropriate, and what signs should trigger emergency care.