Guillain-Barre syndrome - a hidden threat in ARVI

Guillain-Barre syndrome is an immunologically mediated disease of the periphyric nervous system. Tingling in the limbs and weakness, as a rule, are the first symptoms. Such sensations spread rather quickly, eventually, paralyzing the entire body. The most severe form requires urgent medical care and hospitalization.

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown. Often, it occurs after a number of infectious diseases, such as acute respiratory infections or stomach disorders. Therefore, the prevention of diseases that seem so simple as ARI and ARVI can save you from such a complex and dangerous disease. Fortunately, it is rare and affects only 1 or 2 people per 100,000.

Guillain-Barre syndrome often begins with weakness and tingling, which begins with the legs and spreads to the arms and upper body. These symptoms often do not pay much attention. When the disease progresses, the muscle weakness passes into paralysis.

Symptoms and signs:

- Sensation of "goosebumps", tingling in the fingers of the feet, hands.

- Weakness that spreads through the body.

- Uncertain walk or inability to walk.

- Difficulties with the movement of the eyes, face, speaking, chewing or swallowing.

- Severe pain in the lower back.

- Difficulty with controlling the bladder or bowel function.

- Cardiopalmus.

- High or low blood pressure.

- Difficulty with breathing.

In most people this disease develops gradually within a month after the first symptoms appeared. Sometimes the disease can progress very quickly, with complete paralysis of the legs, hands, and also the respiratory muscles in just a couple of hours.

When to see a doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you have:

• Tingling, beginning in the legs and spreading all over the body.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Choking with saliva.

Guillain-Barre syndrome is a serious disease requiring immediate hospitalization because of the high rate at which impairment may occur. The earlier the appropriate treatment is started, the greater the chances of a good result

Guillain-Barre syndrome can be a consequence:

• Pneumonia.
• Surgical intervention.
• Diseases of Hodgkin.
• Influenza virus.
• HIV, AIDS.
• Mononucleosis.
• ARI and ARVI.

Complications after Guillain-Barre syndrome:

• Difficulty with breathing: a potentially fatal complication, which is that weakness or paralysis can spread to the muscles that control breathing. It may temporarily need the help of a device for ventilation.
• Residual numbness or similar sensations. The majority of those who have had the syndrome recover completely or have unusual sensations (numbness or tingling) and residual weakness. Despite this, a full recovery can be quite slow, often for a year or more. From 20 to 30 percent of the patients recovered are not completely restored.
• Cardiovascular problems, often requiring constant monitoring of the pulse and blood pressure.
• Pain. Up to half of the people who had the Guillain-Barre syndrome experience residual neuropathic pains that require the use of painkillers.
• Problems with urination and defecation.

Cherish your health.