What are the Symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) Disease?
October 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. Symptoms often start with tingling and weakness in the legs and can progress to a more severe state. The symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome typically include:
- Muscle Weakness:
- Gradual onset of muscle weakness, often starting in the legs and potentially spreading to the arms and upper body.
- Tingling and Numbness:
- Initial symptoms may include a sensation of tingling, numbness, or a “pins and needles” feeling in the legs or arms.
- Loss of Reflexes:
- Reduced or absent reflexes, such as the knee jerk reflex.
- Progressive Weakness:
- Weakness that rapidly progresses, potentially leading to difficulty moving, standing, walking, or using the arms.
- Difficulty with Facial Movements:
- Weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, which can affect speaking, chewing, or smiling.
- Coordination Problems:
- Difficulty coordinating movements, maintaining balance, or performing fine motor tasks.
- Pain and Cramping:
- Muscle pain, aching, or cramping.
- Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing:
- Severe cases may experience difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking due to muscle weakness affecting the diaphragm and respiratory muscles.
- Fatigue:
- Extreme fatigue or exhaustion due to muscle weakness and effort required to move.
- Sensory Abnormalities:
- Heightened sensitivity to touch, pain, or temperature changes.
- Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction:
- Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system can cause issues such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or bowel and bladder function.
- Paresthesias:
- Unusual sensations, such as burning, tingling, or “crawling” sensations on the skin.
It’s important to note that Guillain-Barré syndrome can progress rapidly, and in severe cases, it can lead to paralysis or difficulty breathing. If you suspect you or someone else may have Guillain-Barré syndrome or are experiencing symptoms indicative of this condition, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment, often involving hospitalization and supportive care, can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the severity of the condition.