An urgent caution has been raised by a medical expert regarding the potential risks associated with a commonly used pain relief medication. It has been advised that aspirin may not be suitable for certain individuals, especially those under the age of 16 due to the risk of developing Reye’s syndrome, a condition that can lead to brain and liver swelling.

Dr. Suraj Kukadia, also known as Dr. Sooj, emphasized the importance of not administering aspirin to individuals under 16 unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare professional, particularly for conditions like Kawasaki disease. The guidance provided aligns with information from the NHS website, which confirms that even low-dose aspirin is not recommended for children, despite being sometimes referred to as “baby aspirin.”

The NHS further clarified that while there are exceptions for children requiring low-dose aspirin post-heart surgery or for specific conditions like Kawasaki disease, caution should be exercised due to the potential link between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome in children. It is strongly advised to never give aspirin to children under 16 without a doctor’s prescription.

To ensure safe usage of aspirin as a pain relief option, individuals are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist, especially if there are concerns related to conditions such as Reye’s syndrome, which can affect children or young adults following illnesses like flu or chickenpox. Recognizing symptoms of Reye’s syndrome, such as persistent vomiting, drowsiness, unusual behavior, or lack of energy, is crucial for prompt medical attention.

In case of severe symptoms, immediate medical assistance should be sought by dialing emergency services or heading to the nearest Accident and Emergency department. For additional information on Reye’s syndrome, individuals can refer to the NHS website.