Why should aspirin be avoided in children?

The treatment of fever and pain is a natural response for many of us, especially when it comes to adults. However, when discussing children, the situation becomes much more complicated. Many of us tend to reach for medication, such as aspirin, immediately when the little ones have a fever or are in pain. It is important to understand that this approach may not always be the most appropriate and can even be risky.

In children, antipyretics, especially aspirin, can pose serious health risks. Reye’s syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, can occur in children who are given aspirin after viral infections such as influenza or chickenpox. The consequences of this disease can be severe, which is why it is extremely important to carefully consider treatment options.

The aim of this article is to present the characteristics, causes, and importance of prevention of Reye’s syndrome, helping parents to be informed and make the right decisions.

Characteristics of Reye’s Syndrome

Reye’s syndrome is a rare but serious illness that primarily occurs in children, especially those under the age of 12 or 18. The syndrome is observed after viral infections, particularly influenza or chickenpox, when the child has taken acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin. Reye’s syndrome is a condition that causes inflammation in the brain and liver and can be fatal if not treated in time.

Initially, the disease may present with symptoms of a viral infection, such as fever, nausea, and vomiting. The condition can suddenly deteriorate 4-5 days after the viral infection, even if the child has been given antipyretics. Parents need to be vigilant about this sudden change in condition, and if the child experiences severe nausea, fever, or altered consciousness, they should seek medical help immediately.

The severity of Reye’s syndrome varies, but approximately 20% of children may face a risk of death, although this number can fluctuate widely depending on the form of the disease. Children who survive the acute phase of the illness often recover fully, but in more severe cases, permanent brain damage may occur.

Causes and Risk Factors of Reye’s Syndrome

The exact cause of Reye’s syndrome is still unknown, but numerous studies suggest that it can develop after viral infections such as influenza, chickenpox, or other respiratory infections. It is particularly important to ensure that children do not take aspirin or similar medications for fever reduction, as this can dramatically increase the risk.

One of the main risk factors for the development of the disease is the use of medications intended to reduce fever or pain. According to doctors’ recommendations, the use of aspirin is strictly prohibited in children under the age of 12, while some studies caution against its use even in those under 18. Parents must be aware of the potential dangers and seek alternative methods for fever reduction, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

To prevent Reye’s syndrome, the most important step is to be well-informed and to use medications responsibly. When treating fever in children, always consult a healthcare professional to avoid serious consequences.

Treatment and Prevention of Reye’s Syndrome

Treating Reye’s syndrome is challenging, as there is no specific targeted therapy available. Children are typically placed in an intensive care unit where their symptoms are managed. The goal of symptomatic treatment is to stabilize the child’s condition and reduce inflammation and swelling in the brain and liver.

The role of parents in preventing the disease is extremely important. In addition to avoiding the use of aspirin, it is advisable to monitor the health of children closely and consult a doctor at the first signs of illness. Early recognition and prompt medical intervention can significantly improve recovery chances.

For appropriate fever reduction, parents may prefer alternative medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, which are safer for children. It is crucial for parents to be informed about the dosing and use of these medications and to never administer aspirin to reduce their child’s fever.

Understanding Reye’s syndrome and adhering to preventive measures is key to maintaining children’s health. Parents should continuously monitor their children’s health and seek medical attention immediately upon noticing any unusual symptoms.