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

1. AIDP (Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy): is the most common form, where the immune system damages the nerve covering (myelin).

2. AMAN (Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy): affects only the motor nerves, leading to muscle weakness.

3. AMSAN (Acute Motor-Sensory Axonal Neuropathy): affects both motor and sensory nerves and tends to be more severe.

4. 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.