Paralysis Resource Guide - (Page 19) CONDITIONS GUILLAIN-BARRÉ SYNDROME Guillain-Barré (ghee-yan bah-ray) syndrome is a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. The first symptoms include varying degrees of weakness or tingling sensations in the legs. The weakness and abnormal sensations often spread to the arms and upper body and can increase in intensity until a person is totally paralyzed. Many people require intensive care during the early course of their illness, especially if a ventilator is required. Most people recover from even the most severe cases of GuillainBarré, although some continue to have some degree of weakness. Guillain-Barré syndrome is rare. It usually occurs a few days or weeks after a person has had symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection. Occasionally, surgery or vaccinations will trigger it. The disorder can develop over the course of hours or days, or it may take up to three to four weeks. It is not known why Guillain-Barré strikes some people and not others, or what sets the disease in motion. There is no known cure for Guillain-Barré syndrome, but therapies can reduce its severity and accelerate recovery. There are a number of ways to treat the complications. Plasmapheresis mechanically removes autoantibodies from the bloodstream. It’s also known as plasma exchange. High-dose immunoglobulin therapy is also used to boost the immune system. Researchers hope to understand the workings of the immune system to identify which cells are responsible for carrying out the attack on the nervous system and to neutralize the attack. Source The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke GBS/CIDP Foundation International offers information and interactive bulletin boards, research funding and a global chapter organization. Guillain-Barré Syndrome Foundation International, The Holly Building, 104 1/2 Forrest Ave., Narberth PA 19096; telephone 610-667-0131; or see the Internet site http://www.gbsfi.com 19 http://www.gbsfi.com
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