Reye’s Syndrome can attack anyone, infant, child, or adult.  Although adults, if diagnosed early, usually recover fully within a few weeks, infants and young children often suffer liver damage as well as mild to extensive brain damage.  The death rate from Reye’s is about thirty-three percent, so it is vital that medical attention is sought with the appearance of the first symptoms.

Reye’s Syndrome attacks suddenly.  The exact cause is as yet unknown, although the disease most often appears in young children after aspirin has been used to treat viral infections or illnesses such as chicken pox, and flu.  This strong indication that aspirin may be a cause, is the reason why aspirin should not be given to anyone under twenty-one years of age.  There is some evidence that toxins as found in herbicides and insecticides may contribute to the condition.  The cause may also lie in an underlying metabolic disorder.

Although Reye’s Syndrome was not officially named until 1963,  there are indications that it has been with us for many years before that.

Early symptoms may include diarrhea, hyperventilation, vomiting, and lethargy.  The vomiting is extreme and is not lessened by having no food in the stomach.  These symptoms usually appear within a few days of a viral infection or upper respiratory infection, and although they could be considered just part of the flu, they should never be overlooked.  If neglected, the patient may suffer extreme weakness, and seizures, and fall into a coma, with dilated pupils that do not respond to light.  Organ failure will follow.

In order to save the child’s life, emergency medical attention should be sought immediately, if any of these symptoms occur, especially if there accompanied by confusion or irregular behavior.

In order to get the best treatment, as quickly as possible, those suspected of having Reye’s Syndrome must be hospitalized, often in intensive care.  Treatments may include anti-seizure drugs, intravenous fluids, aids for breathing, and medications to reduce inflammation in the brain.

Be aware that there are other over-the-counter medications that contain salicylates , the ingredient in aspirin.  Never give aspirin to any child unless it is prescribed by your physician, which it may be, if your child suffers from a chronic illnesses that can only be treated by with drugs that contain salicylates.

Be aware that salicylates come under various names, such as salicylic acid and acetylsalicylic acid, as well as others.  If you are in doubt about any drug, consult  your pharmacist.