Do I Have Parainfluenza (HPIV Illness)?

Do you have a runny or stuffy nose?

Do you have redness or swelling of the eyes?

Do you have a sore throat?

Do you have a rough, barking cough?

Do you have rapid, noisy, sharp or difficult breathing?

Do you have a hoarse voice or cry?

Do you have wheezing (breathing with a whistling or rattling sound in the chest)?

Do you have an ear pain?

Do you have a fever?

Do you have decreased appetite, vomiting or diarrhea?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have parainfluenza. Parainfluenza is a medical condition that refers to an infection of the respiratory tract caused by the human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs). Human parainfluenza viruses are a group of different types of viruses that are classified into four categories from HPIV-1 to HPIV-4. These viruses can cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections. They can affect anyone, but they are more common in the elderly, children and people with a weakened immune system. Children are usually exposed to most of these viruses in early childhood. HPIV infections usually occur in the spring, summer, and fall.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have parainfluenza. Parainfluenza is an infection of your upper or lower respiratory tract caused by a group of viruses called the human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs). HPIVs usually spread from one person to another through close personal contact, contaminated airborne droplets from coughing and sneezing of an infected person, and through contaminated surfaces. The symptoms often appear within 2 to 6 days after exposure. A diagnosis is based on a physical examination and a throat or nose swab. Also, your doctor may order an X-ray or CT scan of the chest to determine the extent of the disease.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have parainfluenza. Parainfluenza is a medical condition characterized by an infection of the upper or lower respiratory tract. It is caused by a group of viruses called the human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs). They can cause different types of respiratory infections that can range from common cold to viral pneumonia. It is possible to have multiple HPIV infections during your lifetime. Since there is no cure for the HPIV infection, the treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids such as water and juice and rest.