How is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) Diagnosed?
In this post, we are going to look at how Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is diagnosed.
If you want to know what GBS is then check out our blog post: What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
If you want to read about GBS symptoms then you can read a blog: What are the Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
Feeling Ill with GBS
Most people who are experiencing GBS symptoms tend to follow the same route. When they initially get symptoms such as numbness and tingling, they think very little of it, and presume it will get better. When it doesn’t or gets worse then they tend to go to see their GP.
Most GPs will not see many cases of GBS and as a result, may not pick up on the symptoms. In our experience, many people who see their GP are told that it is probably a virus, and told to come back if it doesn’t get better. When it doesn’t get better or gets worse, GPs may refer you to a specialist, refer you on to 111 or A&E, or you may decide to go to A&E yourself if things get worse. This tends to be when people are having problems walking.
Not all A&E doctors will have seen GBS either, and we have heard of people being sent home. Hopefully, someone with experience will pick up on the symptoms and realise it may be GBS, or note that they think it is a neurological issue and call on the expertise of a Neurologist.
It is important to note that some people with GBS are misdiagnosed or sent home. You should always feel able to challenge a medical decision and ask for another opinion if needed.
How is GBS Diagnosed?
It can be difficult to diagnose GBS, as many other conditions can present in a similar way. In order to help with diagnosis, a clinician may:
- Ask about your symptoms, such as when they started and whether they’re getting worse
- Examine your hands, feet or limbs to check for weakness or numbness
- Ask if you’ve recently been ill, as GBS may follow an infection
- Check your reflexes, such as whether your leg twitches when your knee is tapped, as people with GBS usually have absent or reduced reflexes
Test for GBS
Following on from this, you may undergo a number of tests with specialist clinicians.
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS). This is where mild electric shocks are given through the skin to activate the nerves and measure the signals travelling along your arms and legs
- Electromyogram (EMG). This is where tiny needles are inserted into several muscles to record their electrical activity. This can show if there is any damage.
- Lumbar puncture. This is where a needle is used to remove fluid from around the spinal cord. A test is then done on that fluid to look for indicators of GBS or other infections.
However, by the time these tests are carried out, it tends to be clear if you have GBS as symptoms will have progressed.
What Happens If You’re Diagnosed with GBS?
Once it is clear that you have GBS (or even if it is assumed that you may have it), then treatment can begin. We will look at this in the next blog post.
Ongoing GBS Support
GAIN is here to support people and families impacted by GBS, offering information, advice, and guidance; providing practical support where it is needed; funding and undertaking research; and raising awareness. If you’re looking for support, to have a chat or ask questions, why not join our monthly Get Togethers or sign up for our GBS Newsletter.
If you want to know more then you can also read our blog series on GBS, or reach out to us, we are more than happy to support
