Pune is grappling with an outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, where cases have crosses 100. The union Health Ministry has sent a team to help the local authorities manage the situation. Here's all you need to know about the disorder

Serious illness that often progresses rapidly, making the patient bedridden in a few days

What is GBS?

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

Wreaks havoc on the nerves

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SYMPTOMS

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

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Weakness  of hand-grip

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When to seek medical help

Severe cases might require ICU admission, ventilatory support Complications like abnormal heartbeat, infections, blood clots, high/low blood pressure need early detection and treatment

GBS patients should be hospitalised for close monitoring of vital signs

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When to seek medical help

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

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Treatment for severe cases

Intravenous immunoglobulin injections over 5 days or plasma exchange over a week

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

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How to prevent GBS

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

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