Guillain-Barré syndrome

Overview

GBS often follows a stomach bug or respiratory infection.

Weakness peaks within 4 weeks, then slowly improves.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Weakness spreading up from the legs
• Weakness or tingling spreading up from the feet

Less common

• Tingling
• Back pain
• Trouble walking

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune reaction after infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

Hospital tests.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Spinal tap:
• Nerve tests:

Treatment

Get care fast.

Self-care

• Follow rehab plans

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Hospital care and rehab.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults: More common with age.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover over months.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• How long is recovery?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Guillain-Barré syndrome