Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), is a rare but serious neurological condition affecting the peripheral nervous system. GBS involves the immune system attacking peripheral nerves, leading to weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis.

GBS, like epilepsy, varies in presentation and severity among individuals. While the exact cause in many cases remains unidentified, timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial. GBS typically follows a course of progression and recovery, with prompt treatment playing a pivotal role in improving outcomes.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms suggestive of GBS, we encourage you to seek medical evaluation promptly. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly impact recovery and long-term prognosis.

Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. While the precise causes of GBS disease remain elusive, several factors are associated with triggering GBS:

1. Infections:

• Campylobacter jejuni: Often contracted from undercooked poultry, it’s a common bacterial cause of gastroenteritis and GBS.
  
• Mycoplasma pneumoniae: Linked to respiratory infections and occasionally to GBS.
  
• Viruses: Including cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and Zika virus, particularly during outbreaks, have been associated with GBS.
  

2. Vaccinations and Medical Procedures:

While rare, some vaccines, notably the influenza vaccine, have been tentatively linked to GBS, though the risk is generally very low and outweighed by the benefits of vaccination.

Guillain-Barré syndrome symptoms manifests through an exhibition of muscle weakness, tingling, and in some cases, paralysis that typically develop rapidly over a period of days to weeks. The disorder is characterised by the immune system attacking the peripheral nerves, leading to a range of neurological deficits. Here are the key symptoms commonly associated with GBS:

1. Muscle Weakness: One of the hallmark symptoms of GBS is progressive muscle weakness that usually begins in the legs and can spread to the arms and upper body. This weakness can range from mild to severe, potentially causing difficulty with walking, standing, or performing daily tasks.

2. Tingling and Numbness: Many individuals with GBS experience sensations of tingling, prickling, or numbness in the hands, feet, or other parts of the body. These sensory abnormalities often precede or accompany muscle weakness.

3. Loss of Reflexes: GBS can lead to diminished or absent reflexes (hyporeflexia or areflexia) in affected limbs. This is often noticed during medical examinations and can be a clinical indicator of the syndrome.

4. Pain: Some patients with GBS may experience varying degrees of pain, which can be described as aching or cramping in the muscles, especially during movement or at rest.

5. Difficulty with Motor Functions: Beyond muscle weakness, GBS can impair motor functions such as coordination and balance. Patients may find it challenging to maintain stability or control fine motor movements.

6. Autonomic Dysfunction: In severe cases, GBS can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms like fluctuations in blood pressure, heart rate abnormalities, and problems with bladder or bowel function.

7. Respiratory Complications: In the most severe forms of GBS, muscle weakness can extend to the muscles involved in breathing (respiratory muscles), necessitating mechanical ventilation to support breathing.

These symptoms can vary widely in severity and progression among individuals with GBS. Early recognition of these signs is crucial for prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment to optimise recovery outcomes.