Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks nerves. Tingling and weakness in hands and feet are some of first symptoms of the condition. These sensations eventually spread throughout the body causing paralysis.
The primary cause of Guillain-Barré Syndrome is unknown. However, two-thirds of people with Guillain-Barré Syndrome reported infection like symptoms six weeks before being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome. This can be gastrointestinal infection, respiratory infection, or Zika virus.
Generally, the symptoms begin with tingling that starts from the hands and body and then proceeds to the arms and face and then throughout the body. As this condition progresses, Guillain-Barré Syndrome can lead to paralysis.
Some other symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome are as follows:
Though the main cause is unknown, research indicates the following can be triggers of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
Experts suggest that the most common risk factor is Campylobacter jejuni infection, which is a bacteria that cause diarrhoea. It’s usually found in undercooked meat, like poultry. Here are a few more infections linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
The diagnosing process typically starts with a full medical history and physical examination. Guillain-Barré Syndrome can be difficult to diagnose, especially in the early stages, your doctor is likely to recommend additional tests including:
Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) -when fluid is withdrawn from the spinal canal in your lower back and is test for changes associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome.
Electromyography- Small needle like electrodes are inserted into the muscles in your body that the doctor wants to study to measure the nerve activity within these muscles.
Nerve conduction studies –this test measures the speed of nerve signals by placing electrodes on the skin above the nerves then sends a small shock to the nerve.
Most health experts believe plasmapheresis is the best treatment if you are diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. In this process, they will take blood from your body, clean it, and return it to your body. Your health provider will also give you antibodies or immunoglobulin along with a high dose of healthy cells through an IV. These treatment methods can help reduce the immune system’s attack on your body.
Scientists and doctors have not yet determined how to prevent Guillain-Barré syndrome. This syndrome is a serious condition that can deteriorate rapidly and requires immediate hospitalization. The quicker treatment is started, the better the chance of a good outcome.