Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to control symptoms. What treatment is given depends on how severe the symptoms are, among other things. The most aggressive treatment is usually only given if you have difficulty walking or if symptoms interfere with your ability to care for yourself or perform work functions.

Treatments may include:

• Corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms
• Other medications that suppress the immune system (for some severe cases)
• Removing antibodies from the blood, using plasmapheresis or plasma exchange
• Intravenous immune globulin (IVIg), which involves adding large numbers of antibodies to the blood plasma to reduce the effect of the antibodies that are causing the problem

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. The disorder may continue long-term, or you may have repeated episodes of symptoms. Complete recovery is possible, but permanent loss of nerve function is not uncommon.

Complications:

• Pain
• Permanent decrease or loss of sensation in areas of the body
• Permanent weakness or paralysis in areas of the body
• Repeated or unnoticed injury to an area of the body
• Side effects of medications used to treat the disorder

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have a loss of movement or sensation in any area of the body, especially if your symptoms get worse.