Guillain-Barre Syndrome

[msanxious76]

I had unprotected vaginal sex approximately around May 29 (condom broke). On or around June 17, I developed minor chills (like tickling sensations) that lasted about 2 days...then stiff neck/ lower back pain...lasted about 2 days...then tingling sensations in feet/toes/hands/arms....some muscle weakness in my arms and when I stood up. that eventually turned into excrutiating burning sensations all over my body (face, neck, hands, feet, toes, etc). The burnng sensations lasted for about a week. I went to the ER to be examined by a doctor for peripheral neuropathy. He did a neurological examination and strongly suggested that i did NOT have peripheral neuropathy. Here it is a week later (a total of 3 weeks of symptoms), 90% of the sensations are gone, with the exception of minor "icy hot" sensation in my feet occasionally, along with occasional tingling here and there on my body. Is GBS considered to be a part of peripheral neuropathy? Does this sound like HIV-related GBS? I have also been really stressed, and I'm aware it could also be anxiety. Thanks so much. I recently took an HIV test on Friday, but have not gotten the results yet due to the holiday weekend.

[msanxious76]

Thanks Dr. Hook! I will keep you posted regarding the results!

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome back to the Forum.  My assessment has not changed.  I'm sorry to hear that your problems are still troubling you.  As I have already said, there is little reason for you to be worried that this is HIV.  

Guillian-Barre is one form or peripheral neuropathy. What you describe is not typical GBS, the time course is wrong and your problems sounds to be sensory in nature while GBS typically also involves motor nerves, causing easily detected and profound weakness which the doctors who have examined you would have noted.  

I am confident that your HIV test results will be negative.  I would see the care of a health care provider who can help you to address the anxiety-relate component of your difficulties.  This will be hard to do over the internet.  Take care.  EWH

[msanxious76]

Is PN and GBS the same thing?

[Teak]

Reread the replies you have already been given.