Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS):
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A Comprehensive Overview What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)? Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nerves connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body and control muscle movement and sensation. In GBS, this immune response damages the myelin sheath (the protective covering of nerves) and sometimes the nerves themselves, leading to weakness, numbness, and even paralysis. GBS is considered a medical emergency because it can progress rapidly and potentially affect vital functions, such as breathing, requiring hospitalization and intensive care in severe cases. Causes of Guillain-Barré Syndrome The exact cause of GBS is unknown, but it is typically triggered by an infection or, less commonly, vaccination. The body's immune system, instead of attacking the pathogens causing the infection, begins to attack its own ...