Treatment for Guillain-Barré syndrome can help reduce the symptoms and speed up recovery. Most people are treated in hospital and usually need to stay in hospital for a few weeks to a few months. The most commonly used treatment for Guillain-Barré syndrome is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). When you have Guillain-Barré
syndrome, the immune system (the body's natural defences) produces harmful antibodies that attack the nerves. IVIG is a treatment made from donated blood that contains healthy antibodies. These are given to help stop the harmful antibodies damaging your nerves. IVIG is given directly into a vein. A plasma exchange, also called plasmapheresis, is sometimes used instead of IVIG. This involves being attached to
a machine that removes blood from a vein and filters out the harmful antibodies that are attacking your nerves before returning the blood to your body. Most people need treatment over the course of around 5 days. While in hospital, you'll be closely monitored to check for any problems with your lungs, heart or other body functions. You'll also be given treatment to relieve your symptoms and reduce the risk of
further problems. This may include: Once you start to improve, you may also need extra support to aid your recovery. Read more about recovering from Guillain-Barré syndrome. Page last reviewed: 06 February 2020 OverviewGuillain-Barre (gee-YAH-buh-RAY) syndrome is a rare disorder in which your body's immune system attacks your nerves. Weakness and tingling in your hands and feet are usually the first symptoms. These sensations can quickly spread, eventually paralyzing your whole body. In its most severe form Guillain-Barre syndrome is a medical emergency. Most people with the condition must be hospitalized to receive treatment. The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown. But two-thirds of patients report symptoms of an infection in the six weeks preceding. These include a COVID-19, respiratory or a gastrointestinal infection or Zika virus. There's no known cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome, but several treatments can ease symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness. Although most people recover completely from Guillain-Barre syndrome, some severe cases can be fatal. While recovery may take up to several years, most people are able to walk again six months after symptoms first started. Some people may have lasting effects from it, such as weakness, numbness or fatigue. SymptomsGuillain-Barre syndrome often begins with tingling and weakness starting in your feet and legs and spreading to your upper body and arms. Some people notice the first symptoms in the arms or face. As Guillain-Barre syndrome progresses, muscle weakness can turn into paralysis. Signs and symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome may include:
People with Guillain-Barre syndrome usually experience their most significant weakness within two weeks after symptoms begin. TypesGuillain-Barre syndrome has several forms. The main types are:
When to see a doctorCall your doctor or health care provider if you have mild tingling in your toes or fingers that doesn't seem to be spreading or getting worse. Seek emergency medical help if you have any of these severe signs or symptoms:
Guillain-Barre syndrome is a serious condition that requires immediate hospitalization because it can worsen rapidly. The sooner appropriate treatment is started, the better the chance of a good outcome.
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clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesThe exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome isn't known. The disorder usually appears days or weeks after a respiratory or digestive tract infection. Rarely, recent surgery or vaccination can trigger Guillain-Barre syndrome. There have been cases reported following infection with the Zika virus. Guillain-Barre syndrome may occur after infection with the COVID-19 virus. It's also a rare reaction in those who receive the Johnson & Johnson or AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. In Guillain-Barre syndrome, your immune system — which usually attacks only invading organisms — begins attacking the nerves. In AIDP, the nerves' protective covering (myelin sheath) is damaged. The damage prevents nerves from transmitting signals to your brain, causing weakness, numbness or paralysis. Risk factorsGuillain-Barre syndrome can affect all age groups, but your risk increases as you age. It's also slightly more common in males than females. Guillain-Barre syndrome may be triggered by:
ComplicationsGuillain-Barre syndrome affects your nerves. Because nerves control your movements and body functions, people with Guillain-Barre may experience:
Severe, early symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome significantly increase the risk of serious long-term complications. Rarely, death may occur from complications such as respiratory distress syndrome and heart attacks. Which assessment finding is typical for a patient with GuillainMost patients with typical GBS present with rapidly progressive bilateral leg weakness with hypo/areflexia in the affected limbs. In rare cases, patients can present with facial, oculomotor, bulbar (i.e. difficulty with swallowing and speaking) weakness, or primary sensory symptoms.
Which type of rehabilitation is an essential component to a client's recovery from GuillainRecreational therapy and vocational counseling to help transition back to home and school or work.
Which procedure would be considered as a treatment option for a client newly diagnosed with GuillainMainstays of treatment for GBS include supportive care such as mechanical ventilation, rehabilitation and immune system modulation, via immune globulins or plasmapheresis.
What nursing intervention is anticipated for a client with GuillainNursing care planning goals for a pediatric client with Guillain-Barre syndrome include improved respiratory function, promotion of physical mobility, prevention of contractures, decreased anxiety and pain, relief of urinary retention, improvement of parental care and prevention of complications.
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