A virus refers to a tiny infectious particle that can invade the body via the nose and mouth. Certain viruses can also pass via sexual intercourse. Viruses multiply in the body and can create such symptoms as fever, cough, nasal congestion and headache. Often, viruses disappear after one to two weeks. However, treatment may be necessary.
Respiratory Synctial Virus
Respiratory synctial virus (RSV) is the most common virus affecting the airways and lungs of infants and children, states MedlinePlus. Specific symptoms of RSV include wheezing, nasal congestion, nasal flaring, trouble breathing, shortness of breath and fever. RSV also causes cough, blue-colored skin as a result of no oxygen (cyanosis) and fast breathing. Typically, these symptoms erupt four to six days after viral exposure.
RSV is spread through such contact as kissing, touching and holding someone's hands. In fact, RSV can survive for 30 minutes on the hands and up to five hours on countertops.
Typically, mild RSV can disappear within a week. However, people who suffer from a severe form of RSV may require hospitalization for intravenous (through the vein) fluids, oxygen and humidified air.
Croup
Croup is a childhood disease caused by the parainfluenza virus. Symptoms of croup include a barking cough that appears at night, according to the Mayo Clinic. Croup can also cause a fever of 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, trouble swallowing, drooling, trouble breathing, and gray or blue skin around the nose, fingernails or mouth.
A humidifier and drinking plenty of fluids may help treat croup. However, medications such as corticosteroids or epinephrine may be necessary if croup is severe. Serious croup complications include difficulty breathing, ear infections and pneumonia.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis refers to a virus affecting the brain and spinal cord. Two types of encephalitis exist: primary and secondary encephalitis. Primary encephalitis directly affects the spinal cord and brain while secondary encephalitis refers to viral infection that starts elsewhere but travels to the brain and spinal cord.
Specific encephalitis symptoms include headache, fatigue, irritability, joint pain, confusion and seizures. Encephalitis also causes tremors, a rash, loss of consciousness, muscle weakness, double vision, changes in personality and rash.
Mild encephalitis is managed with rest, a healthy diet and acetaminophen, according to the Mayo Clinic. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir may also treat encephalitis if the herpes virus is to blame. Corticosteroids and anticonvulsant medications may treat swelling and seizures, respectively.
