All about Guillain-Barré Syndrome

May 2006: The "Focus on Pain" page has just been updated with an excellent article on effective neuropathic pain management strategies as well as one on the effect of the beliefs and preconceptions of nursing staff. Look for the symbols!

American consumers are not alone in this battle against rising drug costs. The US FDA is easing approval of more affordable generic medications, and some drug companies have programs to make their products more affordable for consumers [more].

Many patients have difficulty getting a diagnosis, because of the various ways in which this mysterious syndrome presents itself. In 1991, Canadian politician John Tory's wife was treated with chemotherapy for her symptoms, before doctors finally diagnosed her as suffering from Guillain-Barré [more].

Megan Lynn Banik, american high school senior, learned a vital life lesson when she was laid low by Guillain-Barré. In addition, the neurologists treating her piqued her fascination with nerves and the brain, and she intends to attend medical school and specialise in neurology [more]!

Dance company Marie Chouinard is visiting Singapore next month, where 'Body remix/Goldberg Variations' incorporating prosthetics will be performed ... use the search box (right) for more.

Australian Jack Taylor is confined to a wheelchair as he recovers from Guillain-Barré following a take-away meal of chicken and chips.
Experts have found a significant increase in australians contracting bacterial infections from eating contaminated chicken. The increasing numbers of potentially fatal food poisoning cases are leading to demands for an overhaul of the chicken industry [more].

I love this case history: Courtney, an eight-year old from New Zealand, got through a bout with Guillain-Barré syndrome and spoke about her experience at the 2005 GBS conference about her experience. See 'Case histories'!

The American GBS/CIDP Foundation has designated May as National GBS Awareness Month to educate Americans about this rare debilitating disorder. Local chapters across the U.S. and around the world will conduct activities to raise awareness, including educational seminars and walk-a-thons led by friends and family members of GBS patients. Please do check with your local chapter to see if they are arranging something and if they could use your help!

And finally, a survey finds that many american GBS patients forego proper medical care because they fear they will not be reimbursed by insurance programs! This is particularly dangerous because GBS has the potential to paralyse your heart if you are particularly unlucky. And spacing out treatment may result in more damage occuring within your body.

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Jsmarcussen.com/gbs takes no responsibility for any errors, omissions or misinterpretations. These pages should be used for information only and you are strongly advised to seek professional help particular to your circumstances. For more information, please visit the website http://www.jsmarcussen.com/gbs or e-mail jsmarcussen@mail.tele.dk