Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)

Get the Legal Help You Need for Guillain-Barre Syndrome: Understanding Your Rights and Options

Guillain-Barre Syndrome, commonly known as GBS, is a rare but serious autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system, causing muscle weakness, tingling sensations, and, in severe cases, paralysis. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with GBS, it is important to understand the condition and your legal rights. 

GBS can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms resemble other disorders. However, some of the most common symptoms include the following: 

  • Tingling or numbness in the feet, legs, and hands 
  • Muscle weakness that starts in the feet, and legs and progresses upward 
  • Difficulty with eye or facial movements, such as talking, chewing, or swallowing 
  • Difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath 
  • Heart rate changes 
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction 

If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The diagnosis of GBS often involves a combination of clinical evaluations, blood tests, nerve conduction studies, and imaging tests. Early diagnosis is essential in treating the condition effectively. 

Once diagnosed, several treatments are available for GBS, including plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, and physical therapy. These treatments can be expensive and time-consuming, but they can also help to improve symptoms and prevent complications. 

In addition to medical treatments, individuals with GBS may also be entitled to legal remedies if the negligence of another party caused their condition. For example, GBS has been linked to certain vaccines. If it can be proven that a vaccine caused the condition, the individual may be eligible for compensation through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP). 

It is important to consult with an experienced attorney if you believe that you or a loved one developed GBS due to medical negligence or vaccine injury. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. 

At Lommen Abdo, we have a team of experienced attorneys who focus exclusively on handling GBS cases. We understand the complexities of this condition and the legal remedies available to those affected. We will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf and help you receive the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. 

In addition to representing clients in GBS cases, we also focus on preventative measures. We can work with healthcare providers to ensure patients are properly informed about the risks associated with certain medical procedures, treatments, or vaccinations. We also work to ensure that companies are held accountable for the safety of their products and practices. 

At Lommen Abdo, we believe that every individual has the right to quality medical care and fair compensation for injuries caused by the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with GBS, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a free consultation. We are here to help you every step of the way. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disorder that targets the body’s own system. It occurs when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the peripheral nervous system, the nerves that connect the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, to the organs. Its initial symptoms usually include weakness and tingling in the extremities, which then rapidly spreads up the body, ultimately leading to paralysis. In severe cases, GBS can be life-threatening and may result in death. 

Can you detect Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) through a medical diagnosis?

To diagnose GBS, doctors perform a comprehensive physical examination to evaluate reflexes, muscle strength, and sensations. They may also conduct MRI scans, spinal taps to analyze cerebrospinal fluid for infection and protein, nerve conduction studies, and EMGs to detect muscle weakness and reflexes. 

What are the available treatments for Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

One important note is that currently there is no known cure for GBS. However, there are two primary treatments that have been shown to help individuals recover faster. The first treatment is called plasmapheresis, which involves removing the liquid component of the blood, separating it, and then returning it to the body to stimulate the production of new plasma. The second treatment is known as immunoglobulin therapy, where healthy antibodies from blood donors are given intravenously to the patient. Following these treatments, individuals with GBS often require ongoing physical and occupational therapy to aid in their recovery. 

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