Homeopathic Remedies to Help Treat RSV Infections

Using Homeopathy to Help Treat RSV

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common viral infection that affects the lungs and breathing passages. While RSV often resolves on its own, the coughing, congestion and breathing issues it causes can be uncomfortable. For those seeking natural relief, there are several homeopathic remedies for RSV worth considering.

What is RSV?

RSV is a contagious virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages leading to cold-like signs and symptoms. It is the most common cause of severe lower respiratory tract infections like bronchiolitis and pneumonia in young children under 2 years old.

In adults, RSV often produces symptoms similar to the common cold but can be more severe in older adults or those with heart/lung conditions. RSV spreads easily from infected coughs and sneezes and by touching contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms of RSV

RSV incubates for 4-6 days after exposure before producing symptoms like:

• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Ear infections
• Bronchiolitis
• Pneumonia

In babies, warning signs warranting medical assessment may include difficulty breathing, blue lips, rib retractions or unusual irritability. Adults may experience wheezing, extreme fatigue and breathing trouble.

Duration of RSV

In otherwise healthy children and adults, RSV symptoms typically last about 1-2 weeks before improving. The contagious period averages about 3-8 days but some continue shedding virus particles for weeks after initial infection.

Treating RSV at Home

Since RSV is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective treatment. Typical RSV cases just require relief of symptoms until the infection runs its course. Homeopathy offers several remedies to help ease cough, congestion, breathing issues, fever and fatigue.

Homeopathic Remedies for RSV Treatment

Several homeopathic medicines can provide soothing relief from RSV misery. These natural substances stimulate the body’s ability to overcome infection and reduce associated cough, breathing issues, fever and exhaustion.

Aconitum Napellus

Aconitum Napellus (Aconite) is a classic homeopathic remedy used during the initial acute stage of upper respiratory infections like RSV. It matches complaints that arise suddenly after exposure to cold, dry winds.

Ideal for the first 24 hours of illness, Aconite alleviates common RSV symptoms like:

• High fevers
• Dry, painful cough
• Congestion
• Anxiety and restlessness
• Thirst and chills

Antimonium Tartaricum

Antimonium Tartaricum (Antimony Tartrate) suits later stages of RSV infection once mucus build up and wet, rattling coughs develop. Symptoms improved include:

• Loose, wet coughs producing thick mucus
• Labored, wheezy breathing
• Weakness and fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting

Bryonia Alba

When RSV causes painful dry coughs and breathing issues worsened by motion, Bryonia Alba can help. It's an excellent choice when illness produces:

• Irritating, dry coughs aggravated by inhaling
• Chest congestion and sharp chest pains when coughing/breathing deeply
• Wants to lie completely still due to increased pains with motion
• Extreme thirst for large cold drinks
• Irritability and headaches

Euphrasia

For RSV cases involving lots of eye burning, tearing and nasal irritation, Euphrasia Officinalis aids in relieving:

• Non-stop watery eye and nose discharge
• Burning eyes and eyelids
• Frequent, violent sneezing fits
• Little thirst or warmth

Gelsemium

When weakness, heavy fatigue, chills and headaches dominate the illness, Gelsemium Sempervirens should help temper:

• Intense weakness and lethargy
• Heavy, droopy eyelids
• Chills running up and down the back
• Dull headaches and mental fogginess
• Scanty urination

Administering Homeopathic Remedies for RSV

It's best to match your symptoms as closely as possible to the picture the homeopathic remedy presents for ideal relief. Consulting with a homeopathic practitioner can help ensure proper treatment.

Potency

Higher potencies around 30c are typical for acute respiratory infections. Repeat dosing may be needed as symptoms change over the course of infection for sustained relief.

Form

Homeopathics come as quick dissolving pellets, tablets or liquids making them easy to use. Most can be dissolved under the tongue or in some water for those too cough-y or congested to swallow pills.

Frequency

Typically, homeopathic medicines are given three to four times daily in between doses of cough/fever relieving medications like acetaminophen as needed. Space at least 15 minutes apart.

Duration

Dosing is continued until acute symptoms resolve, usually within a few days for uncomplicated RSV cases. Taper frequency as improvement occurs. If no change by 48 hours, try a different or additional remedy.

Home Care for RSV Recovery

While homeopathics tackle internal symptoms, supportive home measures can help you get through RSV more comfortably and prevent complications.

Rest + Hydration

Be sure to give your body adequate rest to convalesce. Staying well hydrated with warm broths, teas and electrolyte drinks helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration from fever.

Humidified Air

Using a humidifier especially at night helps keep respiratory membranes moist which soothes dry coughs and irritation. Clean humidifiers thoroughly to avoid spreading illness.

Saline Rinses

Saline nasal rinses with a Neti pot help flush out excess mucus and keep passages moist. Gargling with salt water can ease sore throats.

Comfort Measures

Sipping hot teas, using cough drops, elevating the head while sleeping and breathing warm steam provide relief without needing medications.

Avoid Irritants

Steer clear of smoke, dust and other respiratory irritants that can exacerbate breathing issues until infection clears. Cover coughs to prevent spread.

Seeking Medical Care for RSV

While homeopathy can help most cases, contact your doctor if any severe or alarming symptoms arise including:

• High fever not responding to treatment
• Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Blue lips, nails or skin tone
• Excessive drowsiness or confusion

Infants with RSV should receive immediate medical care if they display:

• Fast or labored breathing
• Wheezing
• Gray or blue skin color
• Trouble feeding
• Dehydration

Those at highest risk for complications like pneumonia may need antiviral treatments or supplemental oxygen. Some at-risk babies may be given RSV immunoglobulin shots to reduce severity.

Preventing RSV

RSV is quite contagious through direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces. Frequent hand washing, disinfecting common areas in the home, avoiding those actively infected, and not sharing cups or utensils all help limit transmission.

An RSV antibody injection called palivizumab is sometimes given monthly during RSV season to premature infants or those with certain heart/lung conditions as prevention. A RSV vaccine may be available within the next few years as well.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.