Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) can be triggered by infections or immunizations. The influenza vaccination has been associated with an increased risk of GBS. Following a vaccination, an autoimmune response occurs which affects the peripheral nervous system. GBS can present with a variety of neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness. The myelin portion of the nerves is affected by the inflammation resulting in motor dysfunction. Cases have been reported following administration of influenza, Hepatitis B, MMR, HPV, Varicella, and Meningococcal vaccinations.
GBS is considered a rare disease. Nevertheless, there are approximately 3,000 to 6,000 individuals who are afflicted by GBS each year, according to the CDC. GBS can result in permanent leg or arm weakness and paralysis. GBS can result in death.
The symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome start with weakness or tingling in the feet/legs or hands/arms. The sensation can spread until the person becomes paralyzed.
Common symptoms include:
Guillain-Barré syndrome can stem from many different medical conditions. Patients often do not recognize the symptoms right away, as it can take up to several weeks after the vaccination for the symptoms to surface.
These are some of the most commonly reported vaccines that have led to GBS:
Patients who develop GBS often face a long recovery. While GBS is treatable, the time and effort it takes to heal varies greatly. If after a vaccination you begin feeling the symptoms of GBS, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Our role is to help you determine whether or not your illness stemmed from a reaction to a vaccine.
Scientists are not sure what causes Guillain-Barré, but they do know the disease is not contagious. When GBS is triggered in a patient, their immune system begins to attack itself. The immune system attacks the myelin sheath that surrounds the axons of peripheral nerves as well as the axons themselves.
The myelin sheath is responsible for the transmission of nerve signals. When myelin sheath is injured or broken the nerves are unable to transmit signals efficiently. This is why the muscles begin to lose their ability to respond to the brain’s signals. The nerve network is a two-way street meaning, the patient may lose the ability to respond to other sensations like heat, pain, or extreme cold.
GBS does not currently have a cure but there are treatments to help patients recover. The two most common therapies available to patients are plasma exchange and high-dose immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. The critical aspect of both therapy plans is to keep the patient’s body working during recovery. Some patients must be placed on ventilator assistance to ensure they are able to breathe.
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DISCLAIMER: Any information submitted is confidential. With respect to a vaccine‑related injury, the statute of limitations requires that you file a claim with the U.S. Court of Federal Claims within 3 years from the onset
of first symptoms. In the event of a vaccine‑related death, a claim must be filed no later than 2 years from the date of death. Your inquiry will be responded to by our team within 24 business hours.