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Reye Syndrome is a rare disease that mainly affects children and teenagers when they have, or recently had a viral infection such as chickenpox or influenza. Reye Syndrome causes swelling of the liver and brain, and it can also cause death.
The use of Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA or Aspirin®) has been strongly linked to Reye Syndrome. Do not give ASA or Aspirin® to anyone under 20 years of age.
Instead, use acetaminophen for anyone under 20 years of age to manage symptoms of a viral infection such as fever, headache and muscle aches. Some examples of medications with acetaminophen are Tylenol®, Tempra™, Atasol® or Panadol®. Use the dosage recommended by your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. The dosage is also on the package.
Reye Syndrome can cause these symptoms:
Reye Syndrome occurs 3 to 7 days after the beginning of an infection or illness caused by a virus, or during recovery from the infection or illness. Reye Syndrome can be misdiagnosed as swelling of the brain, also known as encephalitis or meningitis, diabetes, drug overdose, poisoning, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), or a psychiatric illness.
Early diagnosis and treatment can save your child's life. Treatment includes reducing brain swelling, preventing damage to the liver and other organs, and monitoring the heart.
Most people recover completely, but Reye Syndrome can cause permanent brain damage or death.
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