This material must not be used for commercial purposes, or in any hospital or medical facility. Failure to comply may result in legal action.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
Reye syndrome is a serious condition that can cause injury to your child's brain, liver, or other organs. The cause is unknown. Your child may develop Reye syndrome after a viral infection such as the flu or chickenpox. Your child's risk for Reye syndrome is increased if he takes medicine that contains aspirin or salicylates. Reye syndrome most commonly happens to children 4 to 14 years of age.
Call 911 for any of the following:
- Your child cannot be woken.
- Your child has a seizure.
- Your child has trouble breathing.
Return to the emergency department immediately if:
- Your child takes medicine that contains aspirin or salicylates.
- Your child is confused and very irritable.
- Your child does not stop vomiting.
- Your child is very weak or has trouble walking.
- Your child's stomach is painful and larger than usual.
- Your child urinates less than usual or not at all.
- Your child's head is sunken in, or he does not make tears when he cries.
Contact your child's healthcare provider:
- Your child has a fever.
- Your child does not want to eat.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Prevent Reye syndrome:
- Do not give your child aspirin or medicines that contain aspirin. Read the label on medicine before you give it to your child. Check your child's medicine labels for aspirin, salicylates, or oil of wintergreen. These substances may be in cold medicines, herbal supplements, or vitamins. Ask your child's healthcare provider which medicines are safe for your child.
- Ask your child's healthcare provider about vaccines. Vaccines can prevent infections such as the chickenpox or the flu.
Have your child rest. Ask when your child can return to his normal activities or school.
For support and more information:
- National Reye's Syndrome Foundation, Inc
426 N Lewis St
Bryan , OH 43506
Phone: 1- 800 - 233-7393
Web Address: http://www.reyessyndrome.org
Follow up with your child's healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your child's visits.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.