You have been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a condition that affects the nervous system. In people with GBS, the immune system attacks the nerves, often following an infection. But it can also arise out of the blue. This attack can cause weakness or even paralysis. GBS is a temporary illness. Many people return to normal and have no further problems. Others may have some permanent nerve damage. Here's what you can do to help yourself recover.

Do's and don'ts:

• Stay active, but don't overdo it. Get advice from your doctor or physical or occupational therapist on what your activity should be.
• Be patient. Recovery from nerve damage is a slow process, and each person's recovery is unique. You may recover in as little as 3 weeks, or it could take as long as 3 years.
• Be careful. If you still have numbness and weakness, limit activities in which you could fall or hurt yourself. Use temporary assistive devices (walker, cane) as needed until your strength returns.
• Set priorities. Decide which tasks you need to do on a given day. Save the others for another time.
• Talk with your doctor about physical therapy and occupational therapy. These can help you get your strength back.
• Don't drive until your doctor says it's okay.

• Work closely with your doctor and rehab (rehabilitation) team to ensure the best possible recovery.
• Ask your doctors to work with your employer so that appropriate accommodations can be made.
• Seek emotional and physical support when you need it; then accept it. This isn't a sign of weakness.
• You may find it helpful to talk with a counselor or therapist in addition to your primary care provider.
• Some people find support groups helpful. The GBS/CIDP Foundation can identify both local and online resources for patients and caregivers.
• Get out of the house. Ask a friend to visit or to take you on short errands.

Make a follow-up appointment with your doctor as advised. Keep all recommended referrals and follow-up appointments. Rarely, GBS can sometimes get worse.

Call 911anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You lose the ability to move.
• You have trouble breathing or swallowing.
• You passed out (lost consciousness).

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.
• You get new or worse symptoms.