Guillain-Barré syndrome

This is a serious health problem that occurs when the body's defences (immune system) attack the body's own central nervous system.

The exact cause is unknown but its onset occurs after a few days of contracting an infection. Part of the nerves responsible for muscle control are destroyed.

The main symptom is weakness/paralysis. The clinical course of this diseases may vary but it typically begins in the legs before gradually radiating towards the arms, chest and even the neck; in these cases respiratory assistance is required due to the inability to breathe.

Diagnosis is clinical but an electromyogram and analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid should help confirm it.

There is no specific treatment, only symptom and complications management. Sometimes plasmapheresis is necessary for a "washout" of antibodies that attack the peripheral nerves. Recovery can take up to months and most do well.

Warning signs for urgent medical attention include difficulty breathing or swallowing, drooling and severe muscle weakness that prevents walking.