Guillain Barre Syndrome

Guillain Barre Syndrome is a disorder where the body’s immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. It usually occurs a few days or weeks after a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection but it may also occur after surgery or vaccinations. Symptoms include varying degrees of weakness or tingling sensations in the legs that may spread to the arms and upper body before resulting in a paralysis that is a medical emergency, moderate pain throughout the body, difficulty breathing, and difficulty with eye movements, facial movements, speaking, chewing and swallowing. There is no cure but therapies can lessen the severity of the syndrome and accelerate recovery. Plasmapheresis and high-dose immunoglobulin therapy are the two most commonly used. Supportive care and hydrotherapy may also help.