Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune neurological condition in which a person’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. These are the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord that control movement and sensation.

In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, Guillain-Barré syndrome is treated at major hospitals such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health), and Mercy Health. Early recognition and emergency care are critical, especially during winter months when respiratory and gastrointestinal infections are more common in Michigan.

What Happens to the Nerves in Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

In GBS, the immune system targets:

  • The myelin sheath – the protective insulation around nerves
  • Sometimes the axon – the inner core of the nerve fiber

When myelin or the axon is damaged:

  • Nerve signals are slowed, blocked, or distorted
  • Muscles become weak or paralyzed
  • Sensory nerves may misfire, causing numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles”
  • Autonomic nerves (that control heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature) may also be affected

This damage can lead to serious complications, including breathing problems that may require treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU).

How Common Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré syndrome is rare. It affects about 2 to 8 people per 100,000 each year, regardless of gender or age, though it is more common in adults between 30 and 50 years old.

Other medical names for Guillain-Barré syndrome include:

  • Acute idiopathic polyneuritis
  • Acute idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis
  • Landry’s ascending paralysis

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Typical Symptom Pattern

In most people, GBS symptoms:

  • Start in the feet or legs and move upward (ascending paralysis)
  • Develop over a few days to a few weeks
  • Reach a peak, then remain steady for a short time before recovery begins

Less commonly, symptoms may:

  • Start in the arms and move downward
  • Begin in the face or affect eye movements and facial muscles

Common Symptoms

People in Grand Rapids with Guillain-Barré syndrome may experience:

  • Muscle weakness in the legs, arms, or face
  • Paralysis affecting both sides of the body
  • Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
  • Jerky or uncoordinated movements
  • Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” in hands and feet
  • Muscle aches, pains, or cramps
  • Odd sensations such as buzzing, vibrations, or “crawling” under the skin
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Breathing problems – shortness of breath, difficulty taking a deep breath
  • Trouble swallowing or speaking clearly

Autonomic Nervous System Symptoms

If the autonomic nerves are involved, GBS can cause:

  • Changes in blood pressure (too high or too low)
  • Abnormal heart rate (fast, slow, or irregular)
  • Problems with vision (due to eye muscle weakness)
  • Changes in body temperature or sweating
  • Changes in bladder or kidney function

These symptoms can be life-threatening and require urgent care at a hospital such as Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital or Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

Possible Complications

Without timely treatment and close monitoring, Guillain-Barré syndrome can lead to serious complications, including:

  • Respiratory failure – inability to breathe adequately without a ventilator
  • Pneumonia – especially in people who are immobile or on a breathing machine
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – blood clots in the legs from prolonged bed rest
  • Pressure sores – from reduced movement
  • Long-term weakness or paralysis

Because of these risks, most people diagnosed with GBS in Grand Rapids are admitted to the hospital for monitoring and supportive care.

What Causes Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

The Exact Cause Is Still Unknown

The precise reason why some people develop Guillain-Barré syndrome is not fully understood. However, in most cases, GBS occurs days to weeks after an infection or other trigger.

Common Triggers

Many people with GBS report having one of the following in the 1–3 weeks before symptoms begin:

  • Respiratory infections (such as colds, flu-like illnesses, bronchitis, or pneumonia)
  • Gastrointestinal infections – including infection with Campylobacter jejuni, a common cause of food poisoning
  • Viral infections, such as:
    • Respiratory viruses
    • Gastrointestinal viruses
    • Herpes zoster (shingles)
    • Glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis)
    • Viral hepatitis

Other reported triggers include:

  • Surgery
  • Insect bites
  • Pregnancy or the postpartum period
  • Certain other infections or immune-related conditions

In Michigan, where respiratory and gastrointestinal infections often increase during the cold fall and winter months, local doctors may be especially alert to GBS symptoms after seasonal illnesses.

Not Contagious

There is no evidence that Guillain-Barré syndrome itself is contagious. You cannot “catch” GBS from another person.

How Guillain-Barré Syndrome Develops

Whatever the trigger, the immune system becomes misdirected and:

  • Produces antibodies that attack the myelin sheath around peripheral nerves
  • In some cases, attacks the axon (nerve fiber) itself

This immune attack causes:

  • Slowed or blocked nerve signals
  • Weakness, paralysis, and sensory changes
  • Possible disruption of autonomic nervous system functions

Diagnosing Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Grand Rapids

Guillain-Barré syndrome can be challenging to diagnose because early symptoms may seem vague or similar to other conditions. Neurologists at Grand Rapids hospitals use a combination of:

Medical History and Physical Examination

  • Detailed review of recent illnesses, infections, surgeries, or travel
  • Assessment of muscle strength in arms, legs, and face
  • Reflex testing (such as the knee-jerk reflex), which is often reduced or absent in GBS
  • Evaluation of sensation (touch, vibration, temperature)

Diagnostic Tests

Common tests include:

  • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)

    • A small sample of cerebrospinal fluid is taken from the lower back
    • In GBS, protein levels are usually higher than normal with few or no extra white blood cells

  • Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG)

    • Measure how fast and how well nerves conduct electrical signals
    • Help confirm nerve damage and distinguish GBS from other nerve disorders

  • Additional blood tests or imaging (such as MRI)

    • To rule out other possible causes of weakness

Because the course of GBS is unpredictable, ongoing evaluation is important, especially in the first days to weeks after symptoms begin.

Treatment for Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Grand Rapids

There is no cure that instantly reverses Guillain-Barré syndrome, but treatments can:

  • Shorten the length of the illness
  • Reduce the severity of symptoms
  • Lower the risk of complications

Most people with GBS in Grand Rapids are treated in hospital settings such as Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health), or Mercy Health.

Hospital Care and Monitoring

Hospital care may include:

  • Continuous monitoring of breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure
  • Respiratory support (oxygen or mechanical ventilation) if breathing muscles are weak
  • Blood clot prevention (compression devices, blood thinners)
  • Pain management
  • Nutritional support, especially if swallowing is difficult
  • Skin care and repositioning to prevent pressure sores

Specific Medical Treatments

Two main treatments modify the immune response in GBS:

1. Plasmapheresis (Plasma Exchange)

Plasmapheresis is a procedure in which:

  • Blood is removed from the body through a catheter
  • The plasma (liquid part of the blood), which contains harmful antibodies, is separated and removed
  • The remaining blood cells are mixed with replacement fluid and returned to the body

This process:

  • Helps remove the antibodies attacking the nerves
  • Is usually done over several sessions in a hospital setting

2. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)

IVIG is a standard, proven treatment for GBS. It involves:

  • Infusing immunoglobulin (antibodies) from healthy donors into a vein
  • Typically given once daily for about five days
  • Each infusion takes about two hours

IVIG works by:

  • Blocking harmful antibodies
  • Modulating the immune system’s attack on the nerves

Plasmapheresis and IVIG are equally effective, but they are not used together. Your neurologist will decide which treatment is most appropriate based on your condition, medical history, and hospital resources.

Rehabilitation and Recovery in Grand Rapids

Recovery Timeline

After symptoms reach a peak and stabilize, recovery usually begins. Recovery can:

  • Start within a few weeks of onset
  • Take 6 months to 2 years or longer
  • Be complete in many people, but some may have lasting symptoms

Long-Term Outlook

  • About 9 out of 10 people with Guillain-Barré syndrome survive
  • Approximately 75–90% recover completely
  • Around 10–15% are left with permanent disability, such as weakness, balance problems, or fatigue

Generally:

  • The earlier symptoms start to improve, the better the prognosis
  • Severe cases may require longer rehabilitation and follow-up

Rehabilitation Services in Grand Rapids

Rehabilitation is crucial to:

  • Prevent muscle contractures and joint deformities
  • Restore strength, coordination, and independence
  • Support emotional and psychological well-being

Your care team may include:

  • Neurologists – oversee diagnosis and treatment
  • Physical therapists – help with strength, mobility, balance, and walking
  • Occupational therapists – assist with daily activities and adaptive equipment
  • Speech-language pathologists – help with swallowing or speech issues
  • Social workers – connect you with community and financial resources
  • Psychologists or counselors – support mental health and coping

Many of these services are available through hospital-based rehab programs and outpatient clinics in the Grand Rapids area.

Living With Guillain-Barré Syndrome in West Michigan

For people recovering from GBS in Grand Rapids:

  • Seasonal considerations: Cold Michigan winters and icy conditions can increase fall risk; physical therapy may focus on balance and safe mobility on snow and ice.
  • Support systems: Family, friends, and local support groups can help with transportation, home modifications, and emotional support.
  • Follow-up care: Regular check-ups with your neurologist and primary care provider are important to monitor recovery and manage any long-term effects.

The Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health can provide information on preventing infections (such as food safety and flu vaccination) that may reduce the risk of known triggers for GBS.

When to Seek Medical Help in Grand Rapids

Contact a doctor or go to an emergency department at a Grand Rapids hospital right away if you notice:

  • Sudden or rapidly worsening weakness in your legs or arms
  • Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair
  • New numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
  • Trouble breathing, speaking, or swallowing
  • Rapid changes in heart rate or blood pressure
  • Severe, unexplained muscle pain or back pain

Early evaluation by a healthcare professional can be life-saving.

Local Resources and Where to Get Help

If you live in Grand Rapids or the surrounding West Michigan area and are concerned about Guillain-Barré syndrome, you can:

  • See your primary care doctor or a local urgent care clinic
  • Visit the emergency department at:
    • Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
    • Mercy Health
  • Contact the Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for information on infection prevention and community health resources

Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and strong rehabilitation support in Grand Rapids can significantly improve outcomes for people with Guillain-Barré syndrome.