From the Guidelines
RSV symptoms in adults typically last around 10 to 14 days, with symptoms peaking within 3 days and then gradually declining. According to the clinical practice guideline update on adult sinusitis 1, the duration of viral rhinosinusitis (VRS) symptoms, which include cough, sneezing, rhinorrhea, sore throat, and nasal congestion, usually resolves within 10 to 14 days.
The management of VRS is primarily directed toward relief of symptoms, as antibiotics are not recommended for treating VRS since they are ineffective for viral illness and do not provide direct symptom relief 1. Palliative medications, such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, nasal saline, decongestants, antihistamines, mucolytics, cough suppressants, and topical or oral corticosteroids, may be used alone or in varying combinations for symptom relief.
Some key points to consider in the management of RSV symptoms in adults include:
- The use of nasal saline, which may be palliative and cleansing with low risk of adverse reactions 1
- The use of oral decongestants, which may provide symptomatic relief, but should be considered barring any medical contraindications, such as hypertension or anxiety 1
- The use of topical intranasal steroids, which may have a role in managing VRS, although the magnitude of effect is small and the choice of therapy should be based largely on patient preference 1
It is essential to note that adults with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, COPD, or compromised immune systems, may experience more severe symptoms that last longer, and should contact their healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or don't improve.
From the Research
RSV Symptoms in Adults
- The duration of RSV symptoms in adults is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies suggest that RSV infections in adults, especially those who are immunocompromised, can lead to significant morbidity and mortality 4.
- Treatment of RSV-infected adults is limited to antiviral therapy with ribavirin and immunomodulation with intravenous immunoglobulins, corticosteroids, and palivizumab 4.
- The studies provide information on the treatment and prevention of RSV infections, but do not specify the duration of symptoms in adults.
Treatment and Prevention
- Aerosolized ribavirin is the most studied treatment option for RSV infections in adults, and is preferred due to its ability to limit systemic toxicities 4.
- Oral ribavirin therapy has also been shown to be effective in treating RSV infections in moderately to severely immunocompromised patients 6.
- Palivizumab may be a viable option for prophylaxis against RSV in high-risk adults 3, 4.
- Research is ongoing to develop new antiviral treatments and vaccines for RSV, which may provide more effective prevention and treatment options in the future 2, 3.