Guillain-Barre Syndrome

What are the best treatments for Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

See the best treatments for Guillain-Barre Syndrome here

Treatments for Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. This can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. While there is no known cure for GBS, there are several treatments available to manage the symptoms, promote recovery, and prevent complications.

1. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)

IVIG is the most common and effective treatment for GBS. It involves infusing high doses of immunoglobulins, which are antibodies derived from healthy donors, into the patient's bloodstream. These antibodies help to suppress the immune system's attack on the nerves and reduce inflammation. IVIG is typically administered over a period of several days and has been shown to accelerate recovery.

2. Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis)

Plasma exchange, also known as plasmapheresis, is another treatment option for GBS. It involves removing the patient's blood plasma, which contains the harmful antibodies, and replacing it with donor plasma or a plasma substitute. This procedure helps to remove the antibodies responsible for damaging the nerves and can lead to improved nerve function. Plasma exchange is usually performed over several sessions and is often used in combination with IVIG.

3. Supportive Care

Supportive care plays a crucial role in managing GBS and promoting recovery. This includes:

Monitoring: Regular monitoring of vital signs, respiratory function, and muscle strength is essential to detect any changes or complications.

Pain management: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids may be prescribed to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Physical therapy: Physical therapy is vital to prevent muscle stiffness, maintain joint flexibility, and improve overall strength and mobility. It may include exercises, stretching, and assistive devices.

Respiratory support: In severe cases, when breathing becomes difficult, mechanical ventilation or other respiratory support measures may be necessary.

Nutrition: Adequate nutrition is crucial for maintaining strength and supporting the healing process. In some cases, a feeding tube may be required if swallowing difficulties arise.

4. Medications

Several medications may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms and complications of GBS:

Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can help alleviate nerve pain and discomfort.

Anticoagulants: Blood-thinning medications may be prescribed to prevent blood clots, which can occur due to immobility during the recovery period.

Antibiotics: If there is an infection or risk of infection, antibiotics may be administered to prevent or treat it.

Gastrointestinal medications: Medications to manage gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation or diarrhea may be prescribed.

5. Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a crucial part of the recovery process for individuals with GBS. It may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Rehabilitation aims to improve muscle strength, coordination, balance, and functional abilities. It can also address any residual symptoms or disabilities that may persist after the acute phase of GBS.

It is important to note that the specific treatment plan for GBS may vary depending on the individual's condition, severity of symptoms, and response to treatment. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment approach.

by Diseasemaps

Immunoglobin therapy Pain management Physiotherapy Occupational therapy

4/26/17 by AM 1211

Water Therapy, was the best. They were able to push my wheel chair right into the pool. My condition improved quickly after I started the water therapy.

4/26/17 by james ventura 1501

There is no treatment - you just have to ride it out that's what my doctors said.

4/27/17 by Totta 1181

IVIG when you are first diagnosed. Post hospital treatments that helped me are visiting the chiropractor, deep tissue massage, and accupuncture.

4/27/17 by Gabrielle 600

Rest-ivig? rehbilitation, love and encouragement.

5/9/17 by Bob 1650

IVIG infusion and then lots of physiotherapy.

7/24/17 by Charles 320

Intravenous immunoglobin (IVIg) treatment

9/3/17 by James 2825

For me it was IVIG for 5-6 days.

9/9/17 by Barb 1100

Physical therapy is the best. Meds to help with pain

9/10/17 by Connie 2000

Blood transfusion hemoglobin

9/10/17 by Rex McKinley 1200

Lot of time and patience with yourself

9/10/17 by Debra 2000

- Plasmapheresis - Immunoglobulin

9/11/17 by Ysor 504

The key is to stop to immune system from destroying the myelin sheathing around the nerves. This is usually done by (1) shutting down the immune system with the drug Immunoglobulin (IVIG) or (2) cleaning the blood with plasmapheresis.

9/11/17 by Judi 869

Several traditional treatments for GBS onset are IVIG & plasmapheresis. Both are designed to influence your immune system to stop attacking / damaging the myelin sheath in your peripheral nervous system. I was prescribed a 5-day IVIG treatment while an in-patient, which involved a daily bag of medication administered by IV. Research has shown neither to be more effective, but I believe the IVIG solution is the dominant choice. Once the ascending nature of paralysis has been stopped, healing usually proceeds very slowly. I've explored, but am unaware of any other non-medically prescribed treatments / nutrition or supplements / or exercise regimens that truly accelerate recovery from GBS. I've read that some vibration therapy can be beneficial to nerve recovery, & some NASA studies indicate certain wavelengths of light can stimulate nerve healing. As I did, you may be able to access the light therapy on outpatient PT. I occasionally use a large back massager to massage (vibrate) the bottom of my feet, in case it may be beneficial, but I can't say with certainty that it's a healing aid.

9/11/17 by Denny 2300

Back when I had it, back in 1973 it was supportive treatment of symptoms. Today it seems IVIG and physical therapy are the main treatments.

10/1/17 by John 2070

Speed of diagnosis is key. I saw 4 different doctors from NHS walk in centres and A and E who all dismissed me and said there was no problem. It was only when I saw my GP 3 days later he picked up I could have Guillain Barre syndrome and got me rushed into hospital to see a neurologist who diagnosed me immediately.

10/25/17 by Chris 900

I personally had ivig and transfusion

10/27/17 by Amy 500

IVIG Plasmapheresis Corticosteroids Sometimes chemotherapy drugs HSCT for CIDP

10/28/17 by Kath Donaldson 2065

Ivig, plasmapharesis, time, physio

10/28/17 by Holly 1400

Plasmapheresis or IVG.

1/26/18 by Tracey 1100

IVIG or plasmapheresis.

4/2/18 by SurfNYC 2681

Immunoglobulin intrenious daily. I started to turn the corner within a couple of days

6/4/18 by Carl 400

Plasmapheresis, medically induced coma, Gabapentin

9/8/19 by Tara32473 2570

Hospitalization IVIG Blood transfusion Rest Physical therapy Gabapentin

9/9/19 by Joe Wojtanowski 2500

Plasma exchange and time

5/3/20 by Gail 400

Vet ingen än så länge

5/20/21 by Staffan 300

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Inmunogamaglobulina and kinesiology

4/27/17 by Adriana. Translated

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The best treatment is carried out on the basis of inmunoglobinas human administered during the acute period

4/27/17 by Carolina. Translated

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Plasmapheresis and immunoglobulin

4/27/17 by Alejandra. Translated

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In the beginning do plasmapheresis

4/27/17 by Analia. Translated

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The treatment of the Guillain-Barré syndrome is to administer intravenous immunoglobulin in high doses. 5 sessions in total. This prevents the progression of the disease. Then it will require a lot of physical therapy.

5/19/17 by Sabrina. Translated

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The best treatment is to hand a massage therapist with their respective kinesio motor and breathing in some cases

6/4/17 by Alejo. Translated

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Inmunoglobina Plasmapheresis

9/9/17 by Verónica urbano. Translated

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Inmuglobina, and therapies, the water and a lot of relajacio

9/10/17 by Marta. Translated

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The two treatments most effective are imonuglobulina, physical therapy , and vitamin b12 which is great for the regeneration of the nerves.

9/14/17 by RARIANA. Translated

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Treatment with immunoglobulins for a better defense of the body ; respiratory Assistance ; Physiotherapy to regain mobility

10/19/17 by Nicolas. Translated

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Sections in necessary Plasmaferisis,

10/24/17 by Luisina. Translated

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