What Is Guillain-Barre Syndrome That Some Are Getting Post COVID-19

Mumbai: About 25 cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome have been reported among COVID-19 patients here.

This worrying side-effect is an autoimmune neurological disorder that causes “an inflammatory disorder of the peripheral nerves outside the brain and spinal cord”.

This is very rare and happens when the immune system accidentally starts attacking the peripheral nervous system while trying to kill the coronavirus. The disorder can create paralysis.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome

Tingling or itching sensation in the skin followed by muscle pain, weakness and numbness are the initial symptoms. It leads to paralysis of legs, arms, face and breathing muscles as well.

Usually, it shows up within 5 to 10 days of onset of COVID-19 symptoms, according to an Italian group of researchers.

Treatment of Guillain-Barre syndrome

There is no known cure for the disease yet, but it can be managed with regular follow-ups.