Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Definition

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare disorder in which your body’s immune system attacks your Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) whose job is to connect the brain and spinal cord (Central Nervous System, CNS) with the rest of the body The PNS carries sensory information to and from the eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin back to the CNS. It also carries motor messages he muscles, glands and organs. The PNS controls voluntary movements such as walking, chewing and smiling. It also regulates the vital Autonomic Nervous System responsible for heart rate, breathing and digestion.

The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown, however two-thirds of patients report symptoms of an infection in the six weeks preceding (including COVID-19, respiratory or gastrointestinal infection or Zika virus). In the United States and Australia, it is estimated that GBS affects roughly 3,000 to 6,000 people annually, which translates to 1 to 2 cases per 100,000 people.

There is currently no known cure, however several treatments can ease symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness. Although most people recover fully from the disorder, 20% struggle with long term symptoms. Some severe cases can be fatal, often due to pneumonia or cardiac arrest. Recovery itself can take several months, most people are able to walk again six months after their symptoms begin, and some people may experience lasting effects such as weakness, numbness, fatigue, tingling or pain.

Causes / Risk factors

There are a number of known causes and risk factors associated with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, however by far the most common is infection occurring shortly before the onset of GBS symptoms.

• Gender and Age: GBS is more common in men and those over the age of 50.
• Infections: The majority of GBS cases occur shortly after a bacterial or viral infection. The most common infections associated with GBS include: Campylobacter jejuni, Influenza, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and Zika virus. 
• Vaccinations: Vaccinations have been associated with an increased risk of developing GBS.
• Surgery: In some cases, people have developed GBS after undergoing surgery.
• Other Illnesses: Occasionally, a number of other illnesses that are not infections can trigger GBS.

Signs and Symptoms

• Weakness and tingling in your hands and feet are usually the first symptoms
• Pins and needles sensation in the fingers, toes, ankles or wrists
• Weakness in the legs that spreads to the upper body
• Unsteady walking or inability to walk/climb stairs
• Difficulty with facial movements, including speaking, chewing or swallowing
• Severe pain that feels achy, shooting or cramplike and may be worse at night
• Double vision or inability to move the eyes
• Difficulty with bladder control or bowel function
• Rapid heart rate
• High or low blood pressure
• Difficulty breathing

Diet and Lifestyle Considerations for Guillain-Barre Syndrome

• Nutrient-Rich and Anti-Inflammatory Foods
• Adequate Protein
• Vitamin B-Complex
• Hydration
• Fiber
• Physical Therapy
• Adequate Rest
• Stress Management
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol
• Maintain a Healthy Weight

Integrative Treatments Overview

Integrative medicine treatments for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) aim to support the body’s healing process, manage symptoms, and address the patient’s overall well-being during the acute phase of the illness and throughout recovery. While the primary treatments for GBS are medical—such as intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) and plasmapheresis—integrative approaches can play a crucial role in the patient’s rehabilitation and long-term health improvement.

Nutritional & Environmental/Functional Medicine Overview

It is recommended that a patient consult a certified practitioner to assess their symptoms and case history and explore their individual needs.  

Treatment

• Nutritional Support: A nutrient-dense diet to support nerve repair and immune system function. This includes foods high in antioxidants, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals like magnesium and zinc, which are vital for nerve health.
• Therapeutic Diet: Certain specific dietary protocols can be effective at reducing infections and inflammation, balancing the microbiome and supporting the immune and nervous systems. It is recommended that you work with a Functional Practitioner to identify the appropriate protocol.
• Physical Therapy: Once acute treatment is underway, physical therapy becomes essential in helping patients regain strength and mobility. Tailored exercises improve muscle strength, flexibility, and function, reducing the risk of long-term disability.
• Occupational Therapy: Helps patients relearn everyday activities and develop strategies to cope with any residual disabilities, ensuring a better quality of life.
• Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Acupuncture may help manage pain, improve peripheral blood flow, and aid in the recovery of neurological function, although more research is needed in its application for GBS specifically.
• Mind-Body Techniques: Stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and gentle yoga can help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve emotional well-being during recovery.
• Supplements: Certain supplements may support nerve regeneration and immune system balance. This might include high-dose fish oil, alpha-lipoic acid, and certain B vitamins, but these should only be taken under professional supervision to ensure they don’t interfere with the body’s immune response or with other medical treatments.
• Hydrotherapy: Gentle water-based exercises under the supervision of a qualified therapist can help improve muscle tone and strength without putting too much strain on the body
• IVIG: Intravenous immunoglobulins are a treatment derived from pooled IgG antibodies which are extracted from the plasma of blood donors. IVIG is administered intravenously and works as a type of “reset” for the immune system, working to prevent further nerve damage.
• Plasmapheresis: Also known as plasma exchange, this procedure filters the blood to remove certain substances from the bloodstream. In GBS, specifically, it serves to remove the antibodies that are attacking the nerves.