Final answer:
Reye's syndrome is a potentially fatal condition causing brain and liver swelling, usually following viral infections in children and teenagers, and is linked to aspirin use during illness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects children and teenagers recovering from a viral illness, such as influenza or chickenpox. Specifically, it involves the swelling of the brain and liver, which can lead to severe neurological damage, coma, or even death. The syndrome has been closely associated with aspirin use during viral infections.
To reduce the risk of Reye's syndrome, it is advised that individuals younger than 19 years old avoid using aspirin or aspirin-containing products when experiencing symptoms of a viral infection. Since 1988, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has required a warning label to be included on all aspirin products to inform the public of the risks of Reye's syndrome. Prompt recognition and management of symptoms like fever, chills, headaches, body aches, and fatigue are crucial in preventing the development of Reye's syndrome and its potentially fatal complications.