In some people, viral diseases can break down the body’s defenses and lead to more serious infections and life-threatening complications. Therefore, it is important to visit your health care provider when you have symptoms of a viral infection. Once the underlying infection has been determined, following the treatment plan outlined by your health care provider can help reduce any potential complications including:
- Acute bronchitis
- Cervical cancer (from human papillomavirus infection)
- Dehydration
- Frequent life-threatening, opportunistic infections
- Otitis media (ear infection)
- Pneumonia
- Secondary bacterial infection
- Seizures
- Shock and coma
- Sinusitis
- Worsening of asthma