Reye's syndrome facts for kids

Reye syndrome (also called Reye's syndrome) is a very rare but serious health problem. It mainly affects the brain and the liver. This condition can be very dangerous and sometimes even deadly. It mostly happens in children and teenagers. Taking aspirin when you have certain viral infections, like the flu or chickenpox, might be linked to getting Reye syndrome.

What is Reye Syndrome?

Reye syndrome is a rare condition that causes swelling in the brain and damage to the liver. It can also affect other organs in the body. This syndrome is not contagious, meaning you can't catch it from someone else. It often appears after a child or teenager has had a viral infection. These infections can include the flu (influenza) or chickenpox.

How Does Reye Syndrome Happen?

Scientists are still learning exactly why Reye syndrome happens. However, there is a strong link between Reye syndrome and giving aspirin to children and teenagers. This is especially true if they are recovering from a viral illness. Because of this risk, doctors usually tell parents not to give aspirin to children or teenagers. Instead, they suggest other medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain.

What Are the Signs of Reye Syndrome?

The signs of Reye syndrome usually appear a few days after a viral infection starts to get better. They can come on quickly.

• Early signs:
  • Feeling very tired or sleepy
  • Throwing up a lot (vomiting)
  • Feeling irritable or moody

• Later, more serious signs:
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Weakness in arms or legs
  • Seizures (uncontrolled shaking)
  • Loss of consciousness (passing out)

If these serious signs appear, it is a medical emergency. It is very important to get help from a doctor right away.

Why is it Serious?

Reye syndrome is serious because it affects the brain and liver.

• Brain swelling: When the brain swells, it can cause pressure inside the skull. This pressure can damage brain cells.
• Liver damage: The liver is important for cleaning the blood and helping the body use energy. When the liver is damaged, it can't do its job well. This can lead to problems with blood sugar and other body functions.

How is Reye Syndrome Treated?

There is no specific cure for Reye syndrome. Treatment focuses on supporting the body and reducing the damage. Doctors will try to:

• Reduce swelling in the brain.
• Protect the liver.
• Keep the body's fluids and electrolytes balanced.

Children with Reye syndrome are usually treated in a hospital. They might need to stay in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Preventing Reye Syndrome

The best way to prevent Reye syndrome is to avoid giving aspirin to children and teenagers. This is especially important when they have a fever or are recovering from a viral illness. Always check medicine labels carefully. If you are unsure, ask a doctor or pharmacist what medicine is safe for your child.

See also

In Spanish: Síndrome de Reye para niños