What people with COPD need to know about RSV
RSV is not always "just a cold" when you have COPD. Here's how it can affect your lungs and what you can do to lower your risk.
A cough, a runny nose, or feeling a little extra tired may seem like no big deal. But these common symptoms can also be signs of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
While RSV can feel like a common cold for some people, it can be more serious for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Knowing the risks can help you protect your lungs and manage your symptoms.
What is RSV?
RSV is a common virus that affects the respiratory system. That includes your nose, throat, and lungs. Many people get RSV more than once during their lives.
RSV symptoms can look a lot like a cold. You may have:
- A runny or stuffy nose
- A cough
- A sore throat
- A fever
- Headaches
- Feeling very tired
For many healthy adults, RSV causes mild illness. But some people can become very sick. Older adults and people with lung diseases such as COPD have a higher risk of serious complications. RSV can also lead to other illnesses, including pneumonia.
Why is RSV more serious for people with COPD?
COPD is a long-term lung disease that makes it harder for air to move in and out of your lungs. People with COPD often have symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and excess mucus.
When you get RSV, your airways can become swollen and irritated. This inflammation can make COPD symptoms worse. RSV may also cause extra mucus to build up in your airways, making it harder to move air in and out of your lungs.
For people with COPD, that extra strain on the lungs can be enough to trigger a flare-up.
During a flare-up, you may notice:
- More shortness of breath than usual
- Increased coughing
- More mucus
- Trouble doing everyday activities
People with COPD are more likely to need hospital care if they get RSV.
Medications Your Way
How can you help protect yourself from RSV?
There is no way to guarantee you will avoid RSV. But there are several things you can do to lower your risk.
Stay up to date on vaccines. RSV vaccines are available for certain adults who are at higher risk for severe illness. Talk with your physician about whether an RSV vaccine is right for you. Be sure to ask about other recommended vaccines, including the flu shot and pneumonia vaccine. Sign in to your member portal for a list of providers and vaccination sites near you.
Wash your hands often. Use soap and water and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Keep your distance from people who are sick. RSV spreads easily through close contact. Try to avoid spending time near people who have cold-like symptoms.
Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces. This can help reduce your exposure to respiratory viruses during the fall and winter.
Clean frequently touched surfaces. Wipe down items such as doorknobs, counters, phones, and remote controls.
Follow your COPD Action Plan. Taking your medicines as prescribed can help protect your lungs and manage your symptoms. If you smoke, talk with your physician about quitting. Avoiding secondhand smoke is important, too.
Know when to call your physician
It's important to take changes in your breathing seriously. RSV symptoms may start out mild, but they can become worse over time.
Call your physician if you notice:
- Shortness of breath that is worse than usual
- Increased wheezing
- More mucus than normal
- Changes in the color or thickness of your mucus
- Symptoms that are not improving
- Trouble keeping up with your usual daily activities
You know what is normal for your symptoms. If something feels off, don't wait. Your physician or RN Case Manager is just a phone call away.
See our sources:
RSV in adults with lung disease: American Lung Association
Connection between COPD and serious cases of RSV: National Library of Medicine
Hand sanitizer recommendations: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
