Summary about Disease
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. This leads to muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling, and can eventually cause paralysis. GBS can range from a very mild case with brief weakness to a devastating paralysis that is life-threatening. Although most people recover fully, some have permanent nerve damage.
Symptoms
Weakness in the legs that spreads to the upper body
Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
Difficulty walking
Severe pain, which may be cramping or shooting in nature
Difficulty with eye movements, facial movements, speaking, chewing or swallowing
Difficulty with bladder control or bowel function
Rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
Difficulty breathing
Causes
The exact cause of GBS is unknown. However, it is often triggered by a preceding infection, such as:
Campylobacter jejuni (a common cause of food poisoning)
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Zika virus
Influenza virus
Surgery
Vaccinations (rare)
Medicine Used
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): This treatment involves administering high doses of antibodies to help block the damaging antibodies attacking the nerves.
Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): This procedure removes antibodies from the blood.
Pain relievers: Medications to manage pain.
Medications to prevent blood clots: To minimize the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Is Communicable
No, Guillain-Barré syndrome is not communicable or contagious. It is not spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent GBS, as the exact cause is unknown and often linked to infections that are generally unavoidable. However, general health precautions include:
Practicing good hygiene (hand washing) to minimize the risk of infections.
Ensuring food is properly cooked to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Getting recommended vaccinations to prevent certain viral infections.
Consulting a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like weakness, tingling and numbness.
How long does an outbreak last?
GBS isn't an outbreak. It is an individual disease. Symptoms can progress for up to 2-4 weeks, plateau for a period, and then slowly improve over weeks or months. The recovery phase can take several months to years. Some people may have residual weakness even after years.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical examination: Assessing symptoms and neurological function.
Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): Measuring the speed of nerve signals.
Electromyography (EMG): Assessing muscle electrical activity.
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): Analyzing cerebrospinal fluid for elevated protein levels.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial Phase (Days to Weeks): Tingling and weakness typically start in the legs and spread upwards. Symptoms worsen progressively.
Plateau Phase (Variable): Symptoms stabilize; weakness may be severe, potentially affecting breathing.
Recovery Phase (Months to Years): Gradual improvement in muscle strength and function. The rate and extent of recovery vary.
Important Considerations
GBS is a medical emergency. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Respiratory support may be necessary if breathing is affected.
Physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength and function during recovery.
Long-term monitoring and rehabilitation are often needed to manage residual symptoms.
Patients and their families should be provided with emotional support and education about the condition.