March 1, 2025

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare autoimmune condition that causes intensive muscle weakness affecting the entire body. This condition arises when the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, causing inflammation in the nerves. It attacks the myelin sheath of the nerves, which prevents the flow of specific information from the nerves to the brain and the spinal cord. As there is a lack of information transfer, it leads to a feeling of numbness all over the body. Although not common, it can also lead to paralysis. Let’s learn more about this disease, its causes, symptoms and forms of treatment.

What causes Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

To date, researchers have been unable to highlight the main cause of this condition. However, there are several factors that are linked to GBS. Some of the common causes are as follows:

Viral Infections: The condition tends to occur after an individual has had some type of viral infection. For example, the flu, Zika virus, etc. There is still no answer as to why GBS affects certain people after they’ve had a viral infection and not others.

Bacterial Infections: Campylobacter jejuni bacteria is considered a major cause of Guillain-Barre Syndrome. These bacteria often enter the body through the consumption of undercooked poultry products, causing gastroenteritis, which is a major risk factor for GBS. One of the common theories states that viral and bacterial infections affect the manner in which the immune system interacts with the peripheral nerves, thereby treating them as foreign substances and attacking them.

Surgery: The chances of developing GBS after any surgery are less but not zero. In some cases, surgery can trigger the development of this illness.

Vaccination: Rarely, certain vaccinations can lead to developing GBS, but the chances are extremely low.

What are the symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Recognizing the symptoms early on can help you get access to timely care and prevent any severe complications. The symptoms of GBS are mild at the start, however, if left untreated, can soon become severe.

One of the major symptoms of GBS include muscle weakness and paresthesia (a tingling sensation). These symptoms begin majorly in the feet and continue to rise upwards and spread throughout the body. If these symptoms extend for a long time, it could lead to

• Extreme weakness in the body
• Breathing difficulty
• Paralysis

Children having such symptoms find it difficult to walk or climb stairs. If the chest and the diaphragm are severely affected due to the inflammation, there is a high chance that the individual may require breathing assistance.

Other symptoms of GBS include:

• Vision problems
• Change in blood pressure
• Abnormal heart rate
• Digestion problems
• Uncoordinated muscles
• Fainting

Such symptoms demand quick medical assistance. Delays in immediate care and treatment can have life-threatening repercussions. Furthermore, GBS also affects the individual emotionally. Adjusting to extreme bodily changes, such as weakness, vision problems, etc., can make you dependent on others, causing significant distress.

Treatment for Guillain-Barre Syndrome

There isn’t any known cure for Guillain-Barre Syndrome yet; however, proper treatment can help reduce symptoms and manage the illness. Some of the common treatment options used for GBS are as follows:

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): Immunoglobulins are antibodies that the immune system produces naturally to attack harmful organisms. In this treatment the immunoglobulins are injected into the patient’s body to help lessen the body’s autoimmune response (immune system’s attack on the peripheral nerves.) It is a commonly used treatment for Guillain-Barre Syndrome. These antibodies that are injected in the patient’s body come from a large number of healthy donors.

Plasma Exchange: This treatment includes a process wherein harmful antibodies are removed from the blood. A machine is used to separate the blood and the plasma. Upon separation, the plasma is treated and then returned back to the body along with the blood. The filtering of the plasma helps remove antibodies that are attacking the nerves in your body.

These two treatment methods are used mainly to treat GBS. However, physical therapy is also used during the recovery period. These therapy sessions may include rehabilitation, the use of adaptive devices such as canes, walkers, etc., to help with mobility, simple movements of the arms and legs to reduce stiffness and increase flexibility, etc. Furthermore, medications are also provided to help manage pain during recovery.

Why Is Awareness About Guillain-Barre Syndrome Important?

Living with GBS is not easy. Although most people recover completely over time, the period of dependency is quite challenging. Without proper support from family, friends, and other caregivers, treatment and recovery can be emotionally and physically stressful. At Zenplus Pvt Ltd, we understand the importance of timely care and support needed in such conditions and ensure that we provide you with nothing but the best. In times of emergencies or distress, your medical help is just a call away.

Awareness of GBS symptoms helps in early diagnosis and treatment leading to higher chances of quick recovery. Many people lack the knowledge of Guillain-Barre Syndrome which leads to delays in the detection and treatment. By learning about its symptoms and causes, you can take the correct steps towards the prevention of GBS.

Conclusion

There is no denying that GBS is a rare condition and might not affect you throughout your lifetime. However, knowing about its symptoms and causes can help you save the lives of your loved ones or someone in need. GBS can be managed easily through early detection and timely care. Awareness of this condition can help ensure better care for those already affected by it.

FAQs

1. Is Guillain-Barre Syndrome contagious?

GBS is an autoimmune disease and is not contagious. It can develop after a viral or bacterial infection.

2. Can Guillain-Barre Syndrome cause permanent damage?

Yes, GBS can cause permanent damage to the patient’s body. However, through timely interventions and care, affected individuals can also recover from the illness.

3. What is the recovery time for Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Depending on the severity of the condition, the recovery period can vary from weeks to years. In most cases, people often recover in a period of three to four weeks.