The recent increase in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases across India has prompted concern in Visakhapatnam, with five individuals admitted to King George Hospital (KGH) in the past four days. The patients are currently receiving treatment in the Acute Medical Care Unit of the General Medicine Department and are reported to be in stable condition. Doctors are providing continuous medical supervision to ensure their full recovery.
While the rise in GBS cases has caused public anxiety, medical experts reassure the community that GBS is not a new phenomenon. KGH doctors have extensive experience treating the condition, typically seeing around ten cases per month. Though the current situation doesn’t warrant panic, health officials advise vigilance and prompt medical attention for any developing symptoms. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the nationwide increase in cases. Importantly, doctors have confirmed that GBS is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
GBS often develops following viral fever or bacterial-induced diarrhea. The condition targets the myelin sheath, the protective covering of the brain’s nerves. An autoimmune response causes the body to attack this sheath, disrupting nerve signal transmission and potentially leading to organ dysfunction. Symptoms can include progressive numbness, starting in the legs and spreading to the back, arms, and neck, potentially affecting swallowing and even eye closure.
Typically, GBS manifests as sudden weakness in the legs and arms. In severe cases, it can affect the lungs, leading to extreme fatigue and life-threatening complications. The disease usually progresses over one to two weeks before gradually improving as the myelin sheath regenerates, aided by treatments like autoimmune globulin therapy