Guillain-Barre Syndrome and the H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccination

Guillain-Barre Syndrome cases have appeared in several individuals that have received the H1N1 swine flu vaccination. In evaluating the package insert that comes with the vaccination that is manufactured by the company called Novartis, you will find that the most serious side effects associated with the shot include not only Guillain-Barre Syndrome but also issues such as anaphylactic shock and could even result in death.

If you are interested in getting the H1N1 swine flu vaccination or have recently received it, it is important that you learn as much as you possibly can about Guillain-Barre Syndrome. 

Guillain-Barre Syndrome Explained 

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a condition that is often referred to as "GBS" by many. It is a rare type of disorder that results in a person's immune system damaging nerve cells located throughout the body. As a result of this damage, the muscles of the body may become extremely weak. In many instances, paralysis may occur.

Those that suffer from this condition may experience symptoms for just a few weeks. There are cases that may result in permanent damage, but this only occurs in very rare cases. There are cases where individuals have actually died as a result of this condition, but not too many overall. Many of the people that develop this condition will recover completely with little to no long-term complications. 

GBS and Vaccinations 

GBS is a relatively rare condition. It has been established that up to approximately six thousand individuals in the United States develop this condition on an annual basis. The development of this condition is not always associated with vaccinations.

This means that for every one hundred thousand people, up to two people will develop this condition. In the year of 1976, the swine flu vaccination that was issued to the public resulted in approximately one person per one hundred thousand developing Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

In today's world, there is still a chance that individuals may develop GBS after receiving the 2009 H1N1 swine flu vaccination, but this is considered to be quite rare. Before receiving the vaccination, it may be important to talk to your doctor and determine if you are at a high risk of developing GBS. 

Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome 

If you have recently received the H1N1 swine flu vaccination or are planning on receiving it, it is important to become familiar with the symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome. The following represents the most common symptoms associated with this condition: 

• Many find that they experience tingling sensations and even numbness in various areas of the body. This most often occurs in the hands, the feet, and around the mouth.  

• Many sufferers find that it is very hard to move the ones from one side to another when suffering from GBS.  

• Many individuals experience weakness in the muscles of the body. This weakness most often occurs in the face, the legs, and even the arms. In nearly all cases, it occurs on both the right side and the left side of the body.  

• Many that develop GBS find it difficult to speak appropriately and even swallow right. There are many that will also experience complications when it comes to chewing.  

• Pain may occur in various locations of the body - particularly in the back area.  

If you experience any of these symptoms and have had the H1N1 swine flu vaccination, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you are able to. You may be experiencing side effects that could be potentially harmful to you.