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Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare condition where the immune system attacks the nerves, causing rapidly worsening weakness that often starts in the legs. It is a medical emergency because it can affect breathing.
Causes & risk factors
- The immune system attacking the nerves, often after an infection
- Recent gut or chest infection
- Occasionally after other illnesses or, rarely, vaccination
- The exact trigger is not always found
Common symptoms
- Weakness starting in the legs and spreading upward
- Numbness and tingling
- Unsteady walking
- Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
- Trouble swallowing or speaking
- Facial weakness
Tests & diagnosis
- Nerve conduction study
- Lumbar puncture (spinal fluid)
- Breathing tests
- Blood tests
Treatment & management
- Urgent hospital care, often in a high-dependency setting
- Immune treatments such as immunoglobulin or plasma exchange
- Support for breathing if the chest muscles are affected
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation during recovery
- Close monitoring, as symptoms can worsen quickly
When to see a doctor urgently
- Rapidly spreading weakness or numbness — call your local emergency number now
- Any difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking — call your local emergency number now
- Weakness affecting both sides of the body climbing upward
- Inability to walk that came on over hours to days
Frequently asked questions
Is Guillain-Barré syndrome curable?
Most people recover, often well, with prompt treatment, though recovery can take weeks to months and some have lasting weakness. Early hospital care is important because breathing can be affected.
Why is it an emergency?
Weakness can spread quickly to the muscles used for breathing and swallowing. Being in hospital allows close monitoring and support before that becomes dangerous.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.