Pediatric RSV Testing in Oak Lawn, IL
At Minis Pediatric Walk-In Clinic, we offer RSV testing for infants. These tests are best to be conducted during your child’s infancy. As a newborn, your child’s immune system is still developing and can easily be compromised should they catch any severe illnesses.
To learn more about where your child’s immune system stands, it is critical that you have an RSV test done throughout their infancy and if symptoms arise. We’re the perfect place to start to take a closer look at your child’s immune system and health.
RSV Testing: What Is It & What Does It Detect?
A respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) test is a blood test that measures the antibodies the body creates after having been infected with RSV. This infection affects the respiratory tract, including the lungs, nose, and throat, which can lead to serious breathing problems.
RSV tests are usually done to detect the presence of the infection via nasal secretions, but they are beneficial to be done in children and infants who have weakened immune systems. The fall and spring seasons are when RSV is most commonly spread, therefore getting this test done on your infant during this time of year is highly recommended.
Does My Child Need RSV Testing? — Signs to Be Aware Of
RSV can affect your child similar to that of a common cold or sore throat. Because of this, you have to look out for signs and symptoms and should get an RSV test done.
Symptoms include:
- Runny nose or congestion
- Fever
- Cough
- Trouble eating, drinking, or swallowing
- Wheezing
- Straining of the chest while breathing
- Short, shallow, rapid breathing
What To Expect from RSV Testing
During an RSV test, a doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and may conduct a brief physical exam. A doctor will follow with a nasal swab test to detect RSV or another virus. If symptoms are severe, a chest x-ray or an oxygen saturation test may be done to check for lung congestion.
Minis Pediatric Walk-In Clinic is Here to Help!
We are here to not only help your child feel better but also to monitor their health as they grow! The team at Minis Pediatric Walk-In Clinic is more than honored to serve you and your little one. Contact us today to make an appointment and to learn more about our services.