Are you or a loved one living with Guillain-Barré Syndrome? If you’ve recently gotten this unexpected diagnosis, you might be still in the stages of wondering what you can do. Because of the rare nature of the disease, it’s often necessary to find specialists familiar with the condition to be able to get a concrete diagnosis for GBS and learn about its treatment options.
If you are still searching for answers, then hopefully this guide can help. Read on to learn more about Guillain-Barré Syndrome treatment options, GBS in general, and what to expect in the weeks and months following your diagnosis.
What Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
GBS is a rare disorder, affecting between around 3,000 and 6,000 each year on average. It’s a neurological disorder that causes a person’s immune system to damage their nerve cells. This results in muscle weakness and sometimes even paralysis.
Nobody is sure what causes GBS. Scientists believe that it’s linked to some kind of disturbance of the immune system. What is known is that 60% of people who develop GBS symptoms do so in the days or weeks after they have been sick with diarrhea or a respiratory illness.
In very rare cases, some people may develop GBS in the days or weeks after getting a vaccination or a surgical procedure. We also know that those who are aged over 50 are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
The most common symptoms of GBS include numbness and tingling in the hands and the feet that then spread more widely throughout the body. Fatigue, difficulty swallowing and speaking, or difficulty with eye movement are all also signs to look out for. In very severe cases, full paralysis can take effect.
The good news when it comes to GBS is that the recovery rate is pretty high. Around 70% of patients make a full recovery. In fact, 80% of adults recovering from Guillain-Barre syndrome can walk by themselves six months after diagnosis.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Treatment Options
There are several different treatment options open to those suffering from GBS. The most common form of Guillain Barre Syndrome treatment is something called immunoglobulin therapy. Plasma exchange is another treatment that’s often used.
Immunoglobulin therapy is when high doses of healthy cells are administered into your body through an IV. Plasma exchange involves replacing your plasma with an artificial plasma substitute, usually some sort of albumin solution.
As well as these initial treatments, there’s a chance you’ll have to go through some sort of physical rehabilitation. This can include things such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy.
Begin Your Treatment Today
If you’re diagnosed with this rare condition, it’s always best to begin your treatment as soon as is possible. This will increase your chances of making a full recovery. Speak with your doctor to discuss all of your options for Guillain-Barré Syndrome treatment now.
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