Dr Suraj Kukadia has issued an urgent warning over a popular painkiller as it could be dangerous to under 16s
A medical professional has issued an urgent warning about a widely used painkiller that could pose serious risks to certain people. The expert cautioned that aspirin is not appropriate for everyone to take.
Specifically, he disclosed that aspirin is generally unsuitable for youngsters below 16 years of age. This is because of the potential risk of developing Reye’s syndrome, which causes swelling in the brain and liver.
Without prompt treatment, this condition can result in permanent damage. In a clip shared on social media platform TikTok, Doctor Suraj Kukadia provided further details.
Dr Kukadia, who is also known as Dr Sooj online, explained: “Did you know that you shouldn’t give aspirin to anyone under the age of 16 because of an association with something called Reye’s syndrome? Reye’s syndrome is a really rare disorder that can cause serious liver and brain damage.
“Please only give aspirin to someone under the age of 16 if it’s been specifically advised by a doctor for something like Kawasaki disease.” His guidance is supported by the NHS website.
The health organisation confirmed that even low-dose aspirin is inappropriate for children. “It’s sometimes called “baby aspirin” because of the small dose, but it’s not safe for children,” the NHS stated.
“However, sometimes children may be prescribed low-dose aspirin after heart surgery or for a rare condition called Kawasaki disease.” The NHS clarified: “There’s a possible link between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome in children.
“Reye’s syndrome is a very rare condition that can cause serious liver and brain damage.” Therefore, it is advised to “never” give aspirin to children under 16, “unless their doctor prescribes it”.
To ensure the safety of using aspirin as a painkiller (including mouth gel), the NHS advises you to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
- Have ever had an allergy to aspirin or similar painkillers such as ibuprofen
- Have ever had a stomach ulcer
- Have high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Have indigestion
- Have heavy periods – they can get heavier if you take aspirin daily
- Recently had a stroke (low-dose aspirin is not suitable after some types of stroke)
- Have asthma or lung disease
- Have ever had a blood clotting problem
- Have liver or kidney problems
- Have gout – it can get worse for some people who take aspirin
Reye’s syndrome
Reye’s syndrome is a very rare condition that can affect children or young adults after they’ve had an illness like flu or chickenpox. “It can cause serious brain problems if it’s not treated quickly,” the NHS said.
Symptoms of Reye’s syndrome can include:
- Being sick (vomiting)
- Being drowsy and lack energy
- Feeling confused
- Having changes in behaviour, such as being irritable or aggressive
- Breathing quickly and having a fast heart rate
- Having fits (seizures)
- Losing consciousness
You should request an urgent GP appointment or ring 111 if your child is persistently vomiting, appears drowsy or lacks energy, or if they are not behaving as usual – for instance, they’re irritable or aggressive.
Dial 999 or head to A&E if your child:
- Experiences a fit or seizure
- Struggles with breathing
- Appears confused
- Is limp, floppy or not responding as they usually do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may struggle to lift their head or focus on your face)
- Loses consciousness
For further information, visit the NHS website here.