This is a rare and serious condition of the peripheral nervous system. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks part of the nervous system.
The exact cause of Guillain-Barré syndrome is unknown. However, most people (around 60 percent) develop the condition shortly after having a viral or bacterial infection. It's thought infection may trigger the immune system to attack nerve roots and peripheral nerves.
The symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome usually develop two to four weeks after a minor infection, such as a cold, sore throat or gastroenteritis (an infection of the stomach and bowel).
Symptoms often start in the feet and hands before spreading to the arms and then the legs. Initially, patient may have:
- Pain, tingling and numbness
- Progressive muscle weakness
- Co-ordination problems and unsteadiness (patient may be unable to walk unaided)
The weakness usually affects both sides of the body, and may get worse over several days
