GBS/CIDP-Anyone out there have this?

Hi all - My first post and I have to make it about being stricken with what they've finally diagnosed as GBS (Guillan Barre Syndrome). I was so happy making my plans for RNY with Dr Reinhold and now I'm so nervous that this disease ha**** me and I'll have to put this plan of mine on hold. Anyways, GBS basically causes your own immune system to attack the myelin sheeth over your nerves. Good thing is GBS usually runs its course in 8 weeks and then it goes away. This has been a rough 6.5 weeks for me. I basically went from a morbidly obese woman who was at least able to go for walks and tie her shoes and put on her own jewelry, to someone who has to walk with a cane (a walker the first couple of weeks) and lost most of the use of my hands. I am just sick over this. Especially if the GBS turns into CIDP (essentially the same disease but the chronic version - lasts longer and can come back ). Then they might have to put me on steroids, and I heard that you can't have the surgery if you're on steroids. Anyways- I am just writing to all of you to vent a little of my frustrations and to see if anyone else has had experiences with GBS or CIDP. Thanks all-you're a fab bunch! Carla

Carla, Welcome to the boards . I am sorry to hear you have GBS. I do know a few people who have been diagnosed with it. All but one recovered after the 8 weeks or so and one had it develop into the chronic disease. My best advice would be to call Dr. Reinhold's office and speak to them about what their stipulations would be regarding your RNY and this disease. All the doctors handle things a bit differently so it is best to ask them directly. I wish you luck and hope you feel better really soon.

Thanks for the reply Linda. I will be seeing Dr Reinhold on Tuesday and my first topic of discussion will be this GBS complication. Thanks for the wonderful words and so nice to meet you.