Reye’s syndrome
Reye’s syndrome is a very rare childhood illness that can follow on from viral infections such as flu or chicken pox.
It’s also linked with giving aspirin. Usually the symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and fever but it’s possible for a child to have Reyes without exhibiting these symptoms. Other danger signs are listlessness, drowsiness and irregular breathing. Because all of these symptoms can be associated with other diseases it’s possible for Reyes to be misdiagnosed as meningitis. If untreated, the disease can result in liver failure and brain damage, and it can be fatal.
Treatment
If your baby or child has had a viral infection and you suspect he has developed Reyes syndrome, call your pediatrician straightaway or take him to the ER. If he has Reye’s, he’ll be admitted to intensive care and medication will be administered to control any swelling in his brain.
Prevention
The best way to avoid Reyes syndrome is not to give aspirin or any medication that contains it to your child (in fact it shouldn’t be given to children up to 19 years of age). Keep in mind that aspirin can pass into breast milk, so don’t take it or anything containing it if you’re breastfeeding. Check the label of any medication you give your baby or child to ensure it doesn’t contain aspirin – it can also be listed as salicylate, acetylsalicylate, acetylsalicylic acid, salicylamide and phenyl salicylate.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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Last Modified: 20/06/2007
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