As a survivor of this disease at the age of 15, I felt it was important enough to place a fact sheet about it on this page. It can, has and will kill our young if not diagnosed early enough!

Reye's Syndrome Facts

 

  • No one is immune. Reye's Syndrome affects all ages, both genders, and every race.
  • Reye's will generally follow a viral illness or upper respiratory infection, i.e., cold, flu, chicken pox, ear infection, etc.
  • A fever need not be present
  • Reye's Syndrome occurs year round--not just during the winter months.
  • Reye's Syndrome runs its course within a matter of hours to just a few days.
  • Aspirin and salicylate-containing medications do not have to be ingested to bring on Reye's. These medications only increase a person's chance of developing the disease. (Medication List)
  • A person diagnosed with Reye's Syndrome must be hospitalized and treatment begun immediately. (Treatment)
  • Reye's Syndrome usually appears after a flu-like infection, upper respiratory infection, chicken pox, etc. The early signs are usually continuous vomiting, listlessness, loss of energy, aggressiveness, confusion, and irrational behavior.
  • Medicines at the very least can mask symptoms.
  • Do not give your child aspirin or anti-nausea medications.
  • Phone your doctor immediately.
  • Abnormal Liver Tests: SGOT and SGPT strongly suggest a diagnosis of Reye's Syndrome.
  • Time is important! Early diagnosis is VITAL. Reye's Syndrome has been known to kill !!
(Sources: About.com and Web MD)


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