Reye's syndrome is a condition occurring due to unexpected adverse effects of aspirin given to children and adolescents while treating viral infections. This drug in some individuals causes inflammation in the liver and brain and involves symptoms which include breathlessness, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, irritability, confusion, convulsions, and loss of consciousness. Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment are important in the management of this condition.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for Reye's syndrome involves treatment to reduce and treat the inflammation of both the liver as well as the brain. Symptomatic treatment is required for breathlessness, gastrointestinal upset, and neurological symptoms. Herbal medicines which have a specific anti-inflammatory action, and which have a specific affinity for the liver as well as the brain form the mainstay of treatment in the management of this condition. Ayurvedic medicines which can reduce inflammation promptly and without any side-effects are most useful for treating Reye’s syndrome. Medicines are also required to remove the toxins produced from the blood circulation both through the kidney as well as the gastrointestinal tract.
The management of this condition depends upon the severity of the symptoms which give an idea of the degree of inflammation of involved organs. Individuals who exhibit severe involvement of the brain may need to be hospitalized for proper management and intensive care. Other individuals can be managed on an outpatient basis; however, proper monitoring till complete recovery is important.
Depending upon the severity of the condition, most individuals affected with Reye's syndrome require Ayurvedic herbal treatment for periods ranging from 4 to 12 weeks. Timely diagnosis of the condition and aggressive treatment can help in early and complete recovery of almost all individuals affected with this condition. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of Reye's syndrome.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
