Maha Woman Dies Of GBS: What You Need To Know About Neuro Disorder

A 56-year-old woman from Kirkatwadi, Sinhagad Road, who was battling oral cancer, is suspected to have succumbed to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) at Sassoon General Hospital on Wednesday, January 29. The rare neurological disorder has seen a surge in cases, with the total now reaching 127, according to state health officials.

Pune Woman Suspected to Have Died of Guillain-Barré Syndrome as Cases Rise to 127

The woman initially complained of weakness and was admitted to a local hospital in the Sinhagad area, which has been identified as the outbreak's epicenter, on January 15. As her condition deteriorated, she was transferred to Sassoon General Hospital on January 17. She suffered from respiratory failure and sepsis and passed away on January 28.

This comes after the first reported fatality from GBS, a 40-year-old man from Solapur, who died on January 25. The man had been working in the Sinhagad area of Pune and later returned to Solapur after experiencing severe gastrointestinal distress.

The Rapid Response Team (RRT) and the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) health department are continuing their surveillance efforts in the affected areas, including Sinhgad Road. "A total of 7,215 houses have been surveyed so far, comprising 1,943 houses in Pune Municipal Corporation limits, 1,750 houses in Chinchwad Municipal Corporation limits, and 3,522 houses in the district’s rural areas," an official confirmed.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Rare Nerve Disorder That Can Cause Paralysis

Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves. It often develops after a respiratory or stomach infection and can lead to severe muscle weakness, numbness, and even paralysis. While most people recover, early diagnosis is crucial as GBS is a medical emergency.

What Causes Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

The exact cause of GBS remains unknown, but in nearly two-thirds of cases, symptoms appear within six weeks of an infection. These infections can be respiratory, gastrointestinal, or even caused by viruses like COVID-19 and Zika.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

The condition often begins with a tingling sensation in the fingers, toes, ankles, or wrists. As it worsens, muscle weakness spreads through the body, sometimes leading to paralysis. Other symptoms include:

• Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
• Trouble speaking, chewing, or swallowing
• Double vision or inability to move the eyes
• Severe pain, which may be worse at night
• Bladder or bowel control problems
• Irregular heart rate and blood pressure changes
• Difficulty breathing
• Most people experience the worst symptoms within two weeks of onset.

Is There a Cure?

There is no known cure for GBS, but treatments can ease symptoms and speed up recovery. While some cases can be fatal, most patients recover fully. Recovery can take months or even years, but many regain their ability to walk within six months. However, some may experience lasting weakness, numbness, or fatigue.

Early medical intervention is key to managing GBS and improving the chances of a full recovery.