Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Guillain-Barre syndrome, also called polyneuritis, is a condition which usually arises about 10 days after a respiratory infection when there is an allergic response affecting the peripheral nerves, causing weakness and paralysis which classically starts at the feet and moves upwards, though in some cases the arms and legs may be affected together. Besides coming on after an infectious illness it may also follow surgery, but often arises out of the blue. Various degrees of disability occur, from weakness in the limbs to total paralysis requiring artificial ventilation. Recovery is the rule, though it may be prolonged, and require rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Treatment using drugs to damp down the immune response may assist recovery.
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