Guillain-Barré Syndrome is an uncommon disorder in which a person’s immune system attacks their nerves. Symptoms can spread throughout the entire body over time and lead to complete paralysis. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, tests and diagnosis for Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome after taking Gardasil, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Signs & Symptoms
Initial signs of Guillain-Barré Syndrome begin with a weakness, tingling or loss of feeling that begins in your feet and legs and eventually spreads to your upper body. As the disorder progresses, muscle weakness can evolve into complete paralysis. The following is list containing the signs and symptoms associated with Guillain-Barré Syndrome:
- Sharp feeling sensations in fingers and toes
- Weakness or tingling sensations in legs and upper body
- Difficulty or inability to walk
- Problems with eye and facial movement, speaking, chewing or swallowing
- Severe lower back pain
- Inability to control bladder or intestinal functions
- Slow heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Causes
Doctors agree that the exact cause of Guillain-Barré Syndrome is unknown. While 60 percent of cases begin with an infection affecting either the lungs or the digestive tract, there is no known cause why the infection would lead to this disorder. However, a recent FDA/CDC study has revealed some troubling data about Gardasil. The study found that girls and women who received Gardasil vaccinations may be at “an increased incidence of Guillain-Barre syndrome [also known as "Guillain-Barre" or GBS] in the first six weeks, especially the first two weeks, after vaccination.”
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Risk Factors
Risk factors associated with Guillain-Barré Syndrome may include the following:
- Women prescribed Gardasil to prevent HPV
- Campylobacter infections
- Surgery
- Epstein-Barr virus
- Hodgkin’s disease
- Mononucleosis
- HIV
- Rabies or influenza immunizations
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Complications
Complications of Guillain-Barré Syndrome can include breathing difficulties and residual numbness or other sensations. Most people with this disorder have only minor, residual weakness or abnormal sensations; however, certain individuals with the condition experience long-term complications such as permanent problems with sensation and coordination, a relapse of GBS, or death from complications such as respiratory distress syndrome and heart attack.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Tests & Diagnosis
Guillain-Barre syndrome can be difficult to diagnose in its earliest stages. Its signs and symptoms are similar to those of other neurological disorders and may vary from person to person. However, spinal tap and nerve function tests are the most common methods of detecting the disorder. For more information regarding theses specific tests, please visit Mayoclinic.com.
Do I have a Guillain-Barre syndrome Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Guillain-Barre syndrome lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome after taking Gardasil, over-the-counter drug or dietary supplement, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-800-773-0849. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.