GBS (Guillain-Barré Syndrome) is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. It typically follows an infection (like a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection), though its exact cause is not always known. In some cases, it can be triggered by vaccination, surgery, or other immune stressors.
Symptoms of GBS
The symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically progress over days or weeks. Common symptoms include:
Early Symptoms:
Weakness and Tingling Sensations:
Often begins in the legs and can spread to the arms and upper body.
Tingling sensations (paresthesia) in the hands, feet, or face.
Muscle Weakness:
Difficulty climbing stairs, walking, or performing tasks requiring coordination.
Weakness may progress rapidly and lead to paralysis.
Pain:
Aching or cramping pain, especially in the lower back, thighs, or shoulders.
Progressive Symptoms:
Ascending Paralysis:
Weakness spreads upward from the legs to the arms, chest, and face.
Severe cases may result in paralysis of respiratory muscles.
Loss of Reflexes:
Diminished or absent tendon reflexes (like knee-jerk reactions).
Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction:
Fluctuating blood pressure.
Irregular heart rate (arrhythmia).
Difficulty regulating body temperature.
Facial and Cranial Nerve Weakness:
Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing.
Double vision or trouble moving the eyes.
Respiratory Issues:
Shortness of breath due to muscle weakness.
In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be required.
Loss of Sensation:
Reduced ability to feel textures, pain, or temperature.
Severe or Advanced Symptoms:
Complete Paralysis:
In rare cases, GBS can lead to complete immobility.
Complications:
Blood clots, pressure sores, or infections from immobility.
Campylobacter jejuni
Yes, Campylobacter jejuni infection is one of the most common triggers of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). This bacterium is often acquired through contaminated food, water, or undercooked poultry and can lead to an autoimmune response in susceptible individuals, causing GBS.
Why Avoid Certain Foods Like Paneer, Cheese, Rice, and Others?
Your doctor’s advice likely aims to reduce the risk of infections and digestive stress during recovery. Let me explain:
Paneer and Cheese:
These are dairy products, and unpasteurized versions or improperly handled ones can harbor bacteria (like Campylobacter or Listeria), potentially causing infections.
Avoiding such foods ensures you steer clear of any contamination.
Rice:
Improperly stored cooked rice can harbor Bacillus cereus, a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness.
This restriction may also be aimed at maintaining a low-glycemic or anti-inflammatory diet.
Campylobacter jejuni Sources:
Found in raw or undercooked poultry.
Unpasteurized milk or milk products.
Untreated water (e.g., from wells or unfiltered sources).
Cross-contamination during food preparation (e.g., cutting boards or knives used for raw poultry).
Preventing Campylobacter Infection
Here are some key dietary and food safety precautions to follow:
Avoid Raw or Undercooked Poultry:
Cook chicken and other poultry to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Drink Pasteurized Milk:
Ensure all dairy products, including paneer and cheese, are made from pasteurized milk.
Be Careful with Water Sources:
Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water, especially in areas where water safety is a concern.
Proper Food Handling:
Wash hands, utensils, and cutting boards thoroughly after handling raw meat.
Use separate cutting boards for raw and cooked foods.
Avoid Cross-Contamination:
Keep raw poultry away from other foods, especially those eaten raw (like salads or fruits).
Storage:
Refrigerate leftovers promptly and discard spoiled food to avoid bacterial growth.
Why Campylobacter jejuni Matters in GBS
After a Campylobacter infection, the immune system may mistakenly attack the myelin sheath or nerve cells in the peripheral nervous system, leading to the weakness and paralysis characteristic of GBS.
Preventing reinfection is crucial, as another bout could worsen symptoms or delay recovery.
Diet Recommendations During Recovery
Focus on a hygienic, nutrient-dense diet to support nerve healing and recovery:
High-protein foods: Eggs (well-cooked), lean meats, legumes, tofu.
Fruits and vegetables: Wash thoroughly to remove contaminants.
Whole grains: Oats, quinoa, or whole-grain bread instead of white rice.
Healthy fats: Nuts, seeds, and omega-3-rich fish like salmon (well-cooked).
Stay hydrated with safe fluids:
Boiled water, herbal teas, or oral rehydration solutions if needed.
Avoid:
Junk food, sugary items, and fried foods that might increase inflammation or digestive stress.
By following your doctor’s advice, practicing strict food safety, and focusing on a balanced diet, you can reduce the risk of further complications and support your recovery from GBS.
Treatment:
Total 197 cases screwed up Pune 1 dead. So be careful and do all needful precaution to stay fit. Most people recover from GBS, but recovery may take weeks to months. Approximately 15% may experience long-term weakness, and in rare cases, it can be life-threatening due to respiratory failure or complications. Seek immediate medical attention, as early treatment can improve outcomes significantly. Treatments include immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG), plasmapheresis, and supportive care.
Total 197 cases screwed up Pune 1 dead. So be careful and do all needful precaution to stay fit.