Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barre (gee-YAH-buh-RAY) syndrome is a condition in which our own immune system attack the nerves sheath of our body. It is a medical emergency first sign are tickling sensation at extremities. The cause of this syndrome is still not known.

Symptoms

Sign and symptoms first appeared at extremities then it affects your upper body and arms also.

Symptoms and signs of Guillain-Barre syndrome may include:Guillain Barre Syndrome causes symptoms Treatment

  • Rapid heart rate
  • Double vision or inability to move eyes
  • Difficulty with bladder control or bowel function
  • Unsteady walking or inability to walk or climb stairs
  • Prickling, pins and needles sensations in your fingers, toes, ankles or wrists
Cause

Accurate cause of this syndrome is still not known but it may be assumed that it triggered by some respiratory and digestive tract illness which activate the immune system and then immune cells start destroying. the nerve sheath due to which nerves are unable to perform their function properly.

In some people this syndrome appeared after infection from zika virus.

Complications

Complications may include:

  • Pressure sores
  • Bowel and bladder function problems
  • Residual numbness or other sensations
  • Breathing difficulties.
  • Heart and blood pressure problems
Diagnosis

Sign and symptoms of this syndrome mimicking the other neurological condition therefore diagnosis is difficult. After taking history and perform physical examination your doctor may recommend the following test.

  • Nerve conduction studies.
  • Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
Treatment

No medication will help in this syndrome but there are two types of therapy which recovered the most of the symptoms and reduce the severity of the disease.

  • Immunoglobulin therapy.
  • Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis)

Give painkiller along these therapies and prevent the blood clotting which is formed due to immobilization.

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