Popular painkiller poses dangers for children
The expert, who noted that this disease can cause permanent damage if not treated in time, said, "Aspirin should only be given to someone under the age of 16 if it has been recommended by a doctor, especially for conditions such as Kawasaki disease."
The warning, published in the Mirror, is also supported by the UK's National Health Service (NHS), which states on its website that even low-dose aspirin is not suitable for children.
However, in some special cases (after heart surgery or in rare conditions such as Kawasaki disease), low-dose aspirin may be prescribed under the supervision of a doctor.
The NHS emphasises that “there is a possible link between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome” and therefore “aspirin should never be given to children under 16 unless prescribed by a doctor”.
Reye syndrome is a rare but serious illness that can affect children and young adults after an infection such as flu or chickenpox.
Symptoms include:
- Constant vomiting
- Drowsiness, weakness
- Confusion or confusion
- Irritability or aggressive behavior
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat
- Having a seizure (convulsion)
- Loss of consciousness
The NHS is warning parents:
If your child is vomiting constantly, seems sleepy and lethargic, or is behaving differently than usual (for example, is irritable or aggressive), contact your GP or call the emergency line immediately.
ntv
