Intro

If you think you may have symptoms of this condition, call your doctor for an evaluation.

If you lose feeling in an arm or a leg or feel that your arm or leg has become weak, this is a medical emergency. Go to a hospital's emergency department.

Self-Care at Home

There is no home care for this syndrome. Once diagnosed, follow your doctor's instructions.

Other Therapy

Physical therapy should be started as soon as the person can tolerate the activity. Physical therapy should include heat, which provides pain relief. The person should do range-of-motion exercise to prevent joint and muscle stiffness.

Outlook

About 85% of people with Guillain-Barré syndrome will make a complete recovery. Symptoms will gradually improve over several months.

• Any lasting problems may be addressed through additional physical therapy. Some people might need orthopedic devices to assist with activities of daily living.
• About 10% of people are at risk for relapsing. They will develop chronic neuropathy (nerve problems). For these people, drugs that suppress the immune system and plasmapheresis may be helpful.