AIIMS Doctor Warns Against Eating Outside Paneer, Cheese, Rice Amid Rising Guillain-Barre Syndrome Cases

Over the past few days, Maharashtra has witnessed an increase in the number of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases. GBS is a rare neurological disorder in which a person's immune system mistakenly attacks part of their peripheral nervous system - the network of nerves that carries signals from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body, explains the US National Institutes of Health. The Maharashtra government has appealed to the public not to panic and to visit a government hospital if any symptoms appear, reported IANS. It has also been advised that people implement preventive measures, the government said in its appeal.

Update On GBS Cases In Maharashtra

According to the state public health department release issued late on Monday night, there are 110 suspected patients of GBS and one death has been reported until now. Of these, eight have been diagnosed as confirmed GBS cases. Of the 110 suspected patients, about 88 are from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 15 from the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and seven are from other districts.

In a recent viral video on Instagram, Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, Neurologist, MD Medicine and DM Neurology (AIIMS Delhi), shares an important tip to prevent the disease.

"One major cause is gastroenteritis due to a bacteria C jejuni. Although there are many other causes, this is the one that you all should be aware of because this is one cause that we can avoid," says Dr Sehrawat.
Watch the full video here:

Also Read:Is Your Paneer Authentic? Here Are 5 Easy Ways To Spot Fake Paneer

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A post shared by Dr.Priyanka Sehrawat (@docpriyankasehrawat)

Dr Sehrawat explains this illness is best treated within 2 weeks. "We have always seen these cases but an outbreak is concerning. Not to panic. Take care of yourself. Now you know how to take care of at least one cause," she adds. Take preventative measures and consult your doctor if you experience any concerning signs or symptoms.

What Is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a neurological disorder where the immune system wrongly targets the peripheral nervous system. The body's nerves are responsible for transmitting signals from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This attack can lead to various symptoms, including muscle weakness, numbness, and, in extreme cases, paralysis. The exact cause of GBS remains unclear, but infections, especially viral ones, are often linked to its onset.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Warning signs to watch out for include:

• Weakness
• Sensation changes
• Difficulty with eye muscles and vision
• Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or chewing
• Pricking or pins and needles in the hands and feet
• Pain that can be severe, particularly at night
• Coordination problems and unsteadiness
• Abnormal heart rate or blood pressure
• Problems with digestion and/or bladder control

Here Are Some Must-Follow Diet Tips To Prevent GBS, As Per Dr Priyanka Sehrawat:

• Avoid eating out.
• Avoid contaminated food and water.
• Take care of your immunity too.
• Wash fruits and vegetables properly before consumption.
• Increase your intake of vitamin C-rich foods.
• If you do eat outside food, avoid foods like paneer which can be stored for a longer duration, which increases the chances of bacterial growth. Other foods to avoid include cheese and rice.