Disease
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Overview of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. It often starts with weakness or tingling in the legs and can progress to complete paralysis in severe cases. While the exact cause remains unclear, GBS often follows an infection and can develop rapidly. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Types of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- AIDP (Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy): is the most common form, where the immune system damages the nerve covering (myelin).
- AMAN (Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy): affects only the motor nerves, leading to muscle weakness.
- AMSAN (Acute Motor-Sensory Axonal Neuropathy): affects both motor and sensory nerves and tends to be more severe.
- Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS): is a rare variant that causes eye muscle paralysis, unsteady gait and loss of reflexes.
Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Tingling or prickling sensations starting in the fingers and toes.
- Muscle weakness, often beginning in the legs and spreading to upper body.
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs or performing daily tasks.
- Unsteady or loss of coordination.
- Facial weakness or difficulty moving the eyes.
- Difficulty breathing in severe cases due to nerve involvement.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control in some patients.
Causes of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Usually triggered by a recent viral or bacterial infection, like the flu, COVID-19 or Campylobacter jejuni.
- Sometimes linked to recent vaccinations, surgery, or trauma.
- Autoimmune reaction where the immune system attacks the nerves mistakenly.
- No direct person-to-person transmission, it is not contagious.
Complications in Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure, requiring mechanical ventilation.
- Prolonged immobility can cause blood clots or bedsores.
- Long-term nerve pain or weakness may persist after recovery.
- Fluctuating blood pressure or heart rhythm abnormalities.
- Psychological impact due to sudden paralysis and dependency.
Risk Factors of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Older adults are more commonly affected.
- Men are slightly more at risk than women.
- Having had a recent infection, particularly respiratory or gastrointestinal.
- History of autoimmune disorders.
- Exposure to certain viruses like Zika, Epstein-Barr or cytomegalovirus.
Preventions of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- While GBS itself can’t always be prevented, some measures reduce risk:
- Avoid undercooked poultry to prevent Campylobacter infection.
- Treat infections promptly and effectively.
- Practice good hygiene and food safety.
- Monitor symptoms after major infections or vaccinations.
- Seek early medical help if weakness or tingling develops.
Diagnosis of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Neurological examination to assess reflexes and muscle strength.
- Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) to check nerve function.
- Lumbar puncture to examine cerebrospinal fluid for protein levels.
- MRI scans to rule out other neurological conditions.
Treatments of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin): Blocks the immune attack on nerves.
- Plasmapheresis (plasma exchange): Removes harmful antibodies from the blood.
- Physical rehabilitation: Helps regain strength and coordination.
- Ventilation support: In severe cases with breathing difficulties.
- Pain relief and supportive care: For long-term symptoms and complications.
Prognosis of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Most patients recover fully or with minimal lasting weakness.
- Early treatment improves chances of full recovery.
- Recovery may take weeks to months, depending on severity.
- A small percentage may face long-term nerve damage.
- Recurrence is rare but can happen in a few cases.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Access to top neurologists with expertise in GBS treatment.
- Advanced diagnostic and treatment support under one roof.
- Personalised care plans tailored to individual recovery needs.
- International patient support with visa, travel and stay arrangements.
- Dedicated team for follow-up rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What caused my Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
- How severe is my condition and what are the risks?
- How long will it take for me to recover?
- Will I need ventilator support?
- What is the best treatment option for me?
- Will I regain full mobility and strength?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Honest and clear explanation of what is Guillain-Barre Syndrome and its causes.
- Timely diagnosis using the latest neurological tools and techniques.
- A customised guillain barre syndrome treatment plan based on your condition.
- Supportive discussions addressing your concerns and fears.
- Clear information about the treatment process, duration and outcomes.
- Help in understanding guillain barre syndrome life expectancy and prognosis.