Guillain-Barre Syndrome
What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome ?
Guillain-Barre (gee-YAH-buh-RAY) syndrome is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness or paralysis. Weakness and tingling in the hands and feet are usually the first symptoms. These sensations can quickly spread and may lead to paralysis. In its most serious form, Guillain-Barre syndrome is a medical emergency. Most people with the condition need treatment in a hospital.
Guillain-Barre syndrome is rare, and the exact cause is not known. But two-thirds of people have symptoms of an infection in the six weeks before Guillain-Barre symptoms begin. Infections can include a respiratory or a gastrointestinal infection, including COVID-19. Guillain-Barre also can be caused by the Zika virus. There’s no known cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome. Several treatment options can ease symptoms and help speed recovery. Most people recover completely from Guillain-Barre syndrome, but some serious illnesses can be fatal. While recovery may take up to several years, most people are able to walk again six months after symptoms first began. Some people may have lasting effects, such as weakness, numbness or fatigue.
Symptoms
- A pins and needles feeling in the fingers, toes, ankles
- Weakness in the legs that spreads to the upper body
- Not being able to walk or climb stairs
- Trouble with facial movements
- Double vision or inability to move the eyes
- Severe pain that may feel achy, shooting or cramplike
- Trouble with bladder control or bowel function
- Rapid heart rate
- Low or high blood pressure
- Trouble breathing
Cause
The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome isn’t known. It usually appears days or weeks after a respiratory or digestive tract infection. Rarely, recent surgery or vaccination can trigger Guillain-Barre syndrome. In Guillain-Barre syndrome, your immune system — which usually attacks only invading organisms — begins attacking the nerves. In AIDP, the nerves’ protective covering, known as the myelin sheath, is damaged. The damage prevents nerves from transmitting signals to your brain, causing weakness, numbness, or paralysis. Guillain-Barre syndrome may be triggered by an infection with Campylobacter, a type of bacteria often found in undercooked poultry. Influenza virus. Cytomegalovirus. Epstein-Barr virus. Zika virus. Hepatitis A, B, C, and E. HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Mycoplasma pneumonia. Surgery. Trauma. Hodgkin lymphoma. Rarely, influenza vaccinations or childhood vaccinations given. COVID-19 virus.
Risk Factors
Guillain-Barre syndrome can affect all age groups, but the risk increases as you age. It’s also slightly more common in males than females.
When to see a Doctor
Call your healthcare professional if you have mild tingling in your toes or fingers that doesn’t seem to be spreading or getting worse.