A rare autoimmune disorder, Guillain-Barre syndrome can affect multiple areas of the body. Often occurring within a few weeks after an infection, this condition is associated with symptoms like:
Symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome are caused by a faulty immune response, during which the immune system targets nerves throughout the body. While the condition can’t be cured, certain treatments can reduce the effects of symptoms.
For issues with pain and discomfort, doctors can prescribe pain medication to keep symptoms at bay. In the event you’re bedridden for a period of time due to the effects of Guillain-Barre syndrome, your doctor may also prescribe a blood thinning medication. These drugs can prevent blood clots from forming, which can cause very serious health issues or be life-threatening in some cases.
The antibodies created by the immune system of people with Guillain-Barre syndrome can also be stopped by immunoglobulin therapy. Immunoglobulin is derived from donated blood and administered intravenously to patients.
Along with medications and immunoglobulin therapy, other treatments for Guillain-Barre syndrome include:
Treatment for Guillain-Barre syndrome can go on for a long time. For some people, recovery can take years to occur. However, the majority of people who develop this condition do make a complete recovery.