Guillain-Barre Syndrome

In autoimmune disorders, like Guillain-Barré syndrome, the immune system attacks the body itself and leads to various issues.

Guillain-Barré syndrome

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves in the body.

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare condition, and it can affect anyone, but it mostly affects people between the ages of 30 and 50.

Causes of Guillain-Barré syndrome

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown, but it typically occurs after an infection, such as:

• Campylobacter bacteria, which are mostly found in undercooked poultry.
• Influenza, cytomegalovirus, Zika, Epstein-Barr, hepatitis A, B, C & E, COVID-19, and HIV viruses.
• Mycoplasma pneumonia.
• Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Surgeries and traumas.
• After vaccination, in rare cases.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome

• Tingling and stinging in the fingers, wrists, toes, or ankles.
• Leg weakness that moves to the upper body.
• Trouble swallowing and speaking.
• Difficulty moving the eyes and vision problems.
• Severe muscle pain.
• Increased heartbeat.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Guillain-Barré syndrome could lead to bladder and bowel control problems, blood pressure fluctuations, blood clots, cardiac arrhythmia, and breathing problems.

Diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome

• Physical and neurological exam.
• Lumbar puncture.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome

There isn’t a specific cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome, but it can be managed by certain therapies, such as:

• Plasmapheresis (plasma exchange).
• Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.
• Patients generally can recover completely from Guillain-Barre syndrome, but it could take months or even years.