more about Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Description
- This is a syndrome in which multiple nerves throughout the body stop working correctly. It generally causes weakness (i.e., paralysis) that starts in the legs and spreads to the arms and face. The muscles involved with breathing and swallowing may be affected.
Symptoms
- Paralysis/weakness of the lower legs that spreads to arms and face
- Breathing difficulties
- Swallowing difficulties
- Heart racing
- Heart palpitations
- Facial flushing
- Loss of bowel and/or bladder control
- Low or high blood pressure may occur
Cause
- Often occurs after surgery, infections, or vaccinations
How the diagnosis is made
- Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) shows high protein
- EMG — nerve conduction studies usually very abnormal
Treatment
- Observed in Intensive care unit because of risk of fatal heart arrhythmias, and respiratory arrest
- The patient is usually put on ventilator if the lung function becomes weak.
- Chest physiotherapy
- Plasmapheresis — blood plasma is removed, filtered, and returned to the body
- Intravenous immunoglobulin
Prognosis
- Very good if treated appropriately
If You Suspect this Condition
- You need immediate emergency treatment. Sudden death may occur due to heart or lung problems, so do not delay treatment.
Similar Conditions
- Botulism
- Lyme Disease
- Polio
- Toxin Exposure (Heavy Metals)
- Porphyria