Serious illness that often progresses rapidly, making the patient bedridden in a few days
Associated with damage to nerves, causing severe weakness of limbs, trunk, face
Often followed by a bacterial or viral infection such as diarrhoea causing Campylobacter Jejuni bacteria or viral infections like dengue or chikungunya
Very rare but potentially paralysing nerve disorder caused by the immune system
Tingling Foot drop
Symptoms are often related to other diseases, may not always end up as GBS
Difficulty in rising above the ground Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea Fluctuating blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac arrhythmias Temperature, sweating, bowel, urinary disturbances Difficulty in speaking, swallowing, breathing
Difficulty in raising hands above shoulder
Weakness of hand-grip
Severe cases might require ICU admission, ventilatory support Complications like abnormal heartbeat, infections, blood clots, high/low blood pressure need early detection and treatment
Illness often starts suddenly and can progress over 4 weeks Patients may experience rapid worsening Prompt diagnosis, treatment are crucial Delays can lead to worse outcomes
Steroids are avoided Devices like braces or wheelchairs might be necessary for some time Physical therapy necessary to regain strength, movement and avoid secondary infections
Adopt general hygiene measures like frequent hand washing with soap, especially before eating and after using the toilet
Improve sanitation, water, air quality Drink boiled/bottled water Wash fruits/vegetables thoroughly before eating Cook poultry and meat properly Avoiding raw/ undercooked food, especially salads, eggs, kebabs or seafood Keep raw and cooked foods separate Disinfecting kitchen surfaces and utensils after handling raw meat