The Union Health Ministry said they are taking proactive steps and monitoring the situation and coordinating with the state government.GBS is a rare condition that causes sudden numbness and muscle weakness, with symptoms including severe weakness in the limbs and loose motions. Bacterial and viral infections generally lead to GBS as they weaken the immunity of patients, according to doctors.According to Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director and Chief of Neurology at Fortis Hospital, “GBS occurs when antibodies, created to fight bacterial or viral infections like Campylobacter jejuni or respiratory infections, cross-react with the peripheral nerves. This leads to ascending paralysis, starting in the legs and moving upward. In severe cases, patients may lose the ability to breathe due to thoracic muscle weakness and require ventilatory support.”Treatments such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange have revolutionized outcomes, but timely intervention remains critical.Recognizing the symptoms early is crucial for effective treatment. According to Dr. Bhargavi Ramanujam, Senior Consultant in Neurology at PSRI Hospital, “GBS typically starts with weakness in the legs, spreading upward. This may be accompanied by slight sensory loss, difficulty passing urine, or fluctuating blood pressure. Weakness in facial muscles can cause drooling, further signaling the onset of this serious condition.”Dr. Rajas Deshpande, Consultant and Director of Neurology at Jupiter Hospital, said, “Severe GBS can lead to dangerous complications like respiratory failure, blood pressure fluctuations, arrhythmias, and difficulty swallowing. Such patients often require ventilatory support, tube feeding, and intensive monitoring in the ICU. Prolonged immobility also raises the risk of infections and blood clots, making multidisciplinary care essential.”
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