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Guillain-Barré syndrome, present in Tlaxcala photo: Infobae archive

An epidemiological alert has been issued due to the exponential growth of cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome in the State of Tlaxcala. The State Health Secretariat has warned that at least 18 patients have been identified although only 8 have been verified.

Guillain Barré syndrome (Andean)

This condition occurs following having suffered a previous infection, generally respiratory, some cases have even occurred due to COVID-19, Zika virus, respiratory or gastrointestinal.

Guillain Barré Syndrome attacks lower and upper limbs of the body, disabling the patient.

Prevention of Guillain-Barré syndrome is complex, since the exact cause that triggers the disease is unknown in most cases. However, it is identified that it often appears following a bacterial or viral infection. With this in mind, some general measures that can help reduce the risk of infections and possibly developing Guillain-Barré syndrome include:

• Maintain proper hand hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and following using the bathroom.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick to minimize the risk of viral or bacterial infections.
• Cook foods properly to prevent bacterial infections such as that caused by Campylobacter.
• Ensure up-to-date vaccinations according to public health recommendations. Some research suggests that vaccination, such as the flu vaccine, may reduce the risk of developing the syndrome.
• Follow safe food and water practices, especially when traveling to areas where the risk of certain infections is higher.

Hand washing, photo: (Andina)

It is important to note that, although these measures can help reduce the risk of developing infections that might be associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome, they do not guarantee prevention of the disease. If you have suspicious symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Immediate attention to symptoms of Guillain Barré

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. Early symptoms include weakness and tingling in the extremities. These symptoms can spread quickly, eventually paralyzing the entire body.

You may be interested in: These are the viral infections that might cause Guillain-Barré syndrome, according to science

The specific signs and symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome can vary, generally starting with:

• Weakness and tingling in the lower extremities that extends upwards
• Loss of reflexes in arms and legs
• Muscle pain or cramps
• Difficulty moving facial muscles, including the eyes
• Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or chewing
• Difficulty walking or problems with coordination and balance
• In severe cases, the syndrome can cause paralysis of the muscles used for breathing, requiring respiratory assistance.
• Alterations in blood pressure or heart rate

Guillain Barré syndrome, symptoms and risk factors

Importantly, symptoms of Guillain-Barré syndrome can appear quickly, within days or sometimes hours. Seeking immediate medical attention at the first symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.