Reye's syndrome
Treating Reye's syndrome
If Reye's syndrome is diagnosed, your child will need to be immediately admitted to an intensive care unit.
Treatment aims to minimise the symptoms and supportthe body's vital functions, such as breathing and blood circulation.
It's also essential to protect the brain against permanent damage that can be caused bythe brain swelling.
Medicines may be given directly into a vein (intravenously), such as:
- electrolytesand fluids to correctthe level of salts, minerals and nutrients, such as glucose (sugar), in the blood
- diuretics medications to help rid the body of excess fluid and reduce swelling in the brain
- ammonia detoxicants medications to reduce the level of ammonia
- anticonvulsants medications to control seizures
A ventilator (breathing machine) may be used if your child needs help with breathing.
Vital bodyfunctions will also be monitored, including the heart rate and pulse, the air flow to their lungs, blood pressure and body temperature.
Once the swelling in the brain has reduced, the other functions of the body should return to normal within a few days, although it may be several weeks before your child is well enough to leave hospital.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about Reye's syndrome, a rare disorder that can cause liver and brain damage. If Reye's syndrome isn't treated promptly, it can be fatal or result in permanent brain injury.
Symptoms of Reye's
The symptoms of Reye's syndrome usually begin a few days after aviral infection, such as a cold , flu or chickenpox . Initial symptoms can include: vomiting repeatedly tiredness and lack of inte
When to get medical advice
As Reye's syndrome can be fatal, it's vital that you get medical advice if you think your child may have it. Dial 999 to ask for an ambulance, or go straight to your nearest accident and emergency
What causes Reye's syndrome?
The exact cause of Reye's syndrome is unknown, butit most commonly affectschildren and young adults recovering from a viral infection typically, but not exclusively,a cold, flu or chickenpox. In most
Diagnosing Reye's syndrome
As Reye's syndrome is so rare, other conditions that can cause similar symptoms need to be ruled out. These include: meningitis inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and
Treating Reye's syndrome
If Reye's syndrome is diagnosed, your child will need to be immediately admitted to an intensive care unit. Treatment aims to minimise the symptoms and supportthe body's vital functions, such as bre
Possible complications
As a result of advances in diagnosing and treating Reye's syndrome, the majority of children and young adults who develop it will survive, and some will make a full recovery. However, Reye's syndrome
Preventing Reye's syndrome
Becauseofthe possible link between aspirin and Reye's syndrome, aspirin should only be given to children under 16 on the advice of a doctor when it's felt the potential benefits outweigh the risks. C
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