Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) Vaccine Injury

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome caused by a vaccine, navigating through the complexities of this condition can be overwhelming. Understanding the nuances of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, its link to vaccinations, and the options available for treatment is vital.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (pronounced gee-YAHN-buh-RAY Syndrome and also known as “GBS”) is a rare neurological disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own peripheral nerves. This attack damages the myelin sheath in a victim’s nerves, disrupting signals between the brain and body. Early symptoms of GBS manifest as weakness and numbness in the feet and legs, that typically progresses upward through a person’s torso and upper extremities, and which sometimes leads to complete paralysis. GBS can affect anyone, regardless of age or health status, and it often requires immediate medical attention when symptoms become severe.

• Initial tingling or numbness in extremities
• Progressive muscle weakness starting in legs
• Difficulty breathing
• Reduced or absent reflexes
• Blood pressure fluctuations
• Severe nerve pain
• Autonomic nervous system dysfunction

• Vaccinations 
• Viral infections (respiratory or gastrointestinal)
• Bacterial infections, particularly Campylobacter jejuni
• Recent surgical procedures
• Immune system dysfunction

• Clinical examination focusing on muscle weakness patterns
• Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) to analyze cerebrospinal fluid levels
• Nerve conduction studies to assess electrical activity and nerve dysfunction
• Electromyography for muscle response evaluation
• Blood tests to rule out other conditions
• MRI scans when necessary

• Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG)
• Plasma exchange procedures
• Respiratory support when necessary
• Blood pressure management

• Physical therapy programs
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy if needed
• Regular monitoring for complications

• Most severe symptoms typically peak within 2-4 weeks
• Recovery period ranges from months to years
• Many, but not all, patients achieve full recovery
• Some individuals may experience permanent residual weakness
• Regular monitoring and medical follow-up needed for potential complications

• Document timeline between vaccination and symptom onset
• Maintain detailed medical records
• Contact a vaccine injury attorney promptly; a vaccine injury attorney will understand filing deadlines for claims and will know how to successfully navigate the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program

• GBS/CIDP Foundation International
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
• Local support groups and networks
• Specialized neurology departments at major hospitals
• Legal resources for vaccine injury claims

It is important to obtain quality legal representation for your vaccine injury case. Siri & Glimstad, LLP’s nationally recognized vaccine injury group is composed of an entire department of dedicated professionals ready to represent people who have been injured by common vaccinations, including influenza (“flu”), tetanus (“Tdap”), hepatitis B (“Hep B”), and pneumococcal vaccines, among others. Our curated team of attorneys and support staff possess unique and highly specialized skills that enable us to provide aggressive and competent representation for our clients.

We believe that your relationship with your attorney is critical to your legal experience. If you are reading this, chances are you or someone you love may be enduring one of the most physically and emotionally difficult times in their life. Respect and compassion are fundamental to our practice. We understand that clear and honest communication is paramount to our client’s experience. You will receive highly personalized, transparent representation with direct access to an attorney during all stages of your case. Every single one of our clients is a priority.

If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered from a vaccine injury, then don’t wait to contact us. The court imposes strict deadlines that must be met to preserve your vaccine injury claim. Contact Siri & Glimstad today for a free consultation with one of our vaccine injury attorneys.