Treatment
Treatment aims to reduce the body’s autoimmune response and decrease complications that result from immobility. Hospitalization is important because symptoms may rapidly become more severe, including respiratory failure, cardiac arrhythmias , and blood pressure instability. Most patients need to be in the hospital for at least one month. Common treatments include:
Plasmapheresis
During plasmapheresis , blood is removed from your body and passed through a machine that separates blood cells. The separated cells are then returned to your body with new plasma. This procedure may help shorten the course and severity of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
High-dose Immunoglobulin Therapy
Intravenous infusion with immunoglobulin (IVIg) may help reduce the severity of a Guillain-Barré attack. Immunoglobulins are proteins that are naturally produced by the body’s immune system.
Mechanical Ventilation
In 30% of cases, muscles necessary for breathing become paralyzed. This is treated with immediate emergency support from a mechanical ventilator.
Pain Control
Your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce the pain. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gabapentin, carbamezepine, or narcotic analgesics.
If you are diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, follow your doctor's instructions .
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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