Peripheral nerves control muscle movement, pain signals and sensations like temperature and touch. The body’s nerves have a central conducting core known as the axon, which carries electrical signals. This axon is encased in an insulating layer called myelin. The myelin sheath enhances the speed of nerve signal transmission and enables signals to travel over long distances.
In the most prevalent form of Guillain-Barre syndrome, known as acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), the immune system attacks the myelin sheath. In two other variants of GBS, acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) and acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN), the immune response may target the axons directly. Consequently, the nerves struggle to transmit signals effectively, leading to muscle weakness and diminished or absent reflexes. For proper diagnosis and treatment, consult the best internal medicine doctor to manage and address this complex condition.
GBS is more frequently seen in adults and males. However, it can affect individuals of any age.
Symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome
Guillain-Barre syndrome frequently commences with tingling and weakness setting in from the feet and legs to the upper body and arms. A few people witness the initial symptoms in their arms or face. Symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome include:
- ‘Pins and needles’ or tingling feeling in the fingers, toes, wrists or ankles
- Weakness in the legs that gradually spreads to the upper body
- Difficulty walking, maintaining balance or climbing stairs
- Difficulty controlling facial movements, such as speaking, chewing or swallowing
- Double vision or inability to move the eyes
- Intense pain that may feel achy, shooting or cramp-like, often worse at night
- Issues with bladder control or bowel function
- Rapid heart rate
- Fluctuating blood pressure, either high or low
- Difficulty breathing
Causes of Guillain-Barre syndrome
Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an uncommon condition, and its exact causes are unclear. Most cases of GBS arise after a viral or bacterial infection, which can lead the immune system to incorrectly attack the body. A key risk factor for GBS is infection with Campylobacter jejuni, a bacterium that results in gastroenteritis characterised by nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. GBS may also be caused by infections like the flu and other viral illnesses, including cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus and Zika virus.
Guillain-Barre syndrome diagnosis
Guillain-Barre syndrome diagnosis can be challenging in its initial stages. The symptoms often resemble those of other illnesses and can differ from one individual to another. Your healthcare provider will begin by reviewing your medical history and conducting a detailed physical examination. Then, they may recommend the following tests:
- Spinal tap or lumbar puncture: It involves taking a small sample of fluid from the spinal canal in your lower back. This fluid is then analysed for specific changes that are often seen in individuals with Guillain-Barre syndrome.
- Electromyography: It involves the insertion of thin-needle electrodes into the muscles to assess nerve activity.
- Nerve conduction studies: This study involves placing electrodes on the skin over the nerves. A mild electrical impulse is sent through the nerve to assess the speed of the nerve signals.
Treatment for Guillain-Barre syndrome
While there is no cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome, treatments are available to help alleviate symptoms and reduce the length of the condition.
- Plasma exchange: Commonly referred to as plasmapheresis, it involves the removal of plasma, the liquid component of the blood. During this procedure, plasma is separated from the blood cells, which are then returned to the body. This process allows the body to produce more plasma to replace what was taken out. Plasmapheresis may help by eliminating specific antibodies that play a role in the immune system’s assault on the peripheral nerves.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG): It is a treatment that uses intravenous injections of immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins are the proteins that the immune system produces to combat invading organisms. These immunoglobulins are sourced from a pool of thousands of healthy donors. IVIG can help reduce the immune system’s attack on the nerves.
Starting either of these treatments within two weeks of developing Guillain-Barre syndrome symptoms can typically shorten your recovery time.
Rehabilitation
As you begin to recover, your healthcare team may transfer you to a rehabilitation facility. Here, you will work with physical therapists and other specialists to regain your strength and return to daily activities. The therapies you may receive include:
- Physical therapy: It focuses on enhancing the body’s movement. A physical therapist will assist you in managing symptoms such as pain, stiffness and discomfort. They will also guide you through exercises aimed at rebuilding muscle strength.
- Occupational therapy: It focuses on enhancing your skills for everyday activities. An occupational therapist will guide you in learning how to stand, sit, move or use various tools to engage in your activities safely.
- Speech therapy: If Guillain-Barre syndrome impacts the muscles in your mouth or throat, a speech-language pathologist can assist you in recovering your abilities to swallow and speak.
- Mobility aids: Canes, braces, walkers and wheelchairs can enhance your movement, reduce the risk of falls and help minimise fatigue.
Conclusion
Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a serious health condition that can quickly affect your well-being. The good news is that with appropriate treatment, many individuals with GBS achieve a complete recovery. Nonetheless, the journey to recovery can be long and difficult. You can be assured that your healthcare team will support you throughout this process, and do not hesitate to lean on the assistance of your family and friends during this time. For expert care and treatment, visit Fortis, the best hospital in India, where a dedicated team will guide you through your recovery journey.
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