The syndrome is frequently preceded by a virus, trauma, surgery, viral immunizations or a cancer. It is most commonly seen in adults between 20 and 50, but can occur at any age. This weakness can occur over hours to weeks and usually peaks by the 14th day. The person with Guillain-Barre syndrome is usually hospitalized in a intensive care unit so their condition can be closely monitored. Activities to keep the person mentally and socially active encouraging coughing to clear the lungs of mucus use of warm compresses or heating pads to help relieve pain and permit early movement.
Complete recovery occurs without residual effects in most cases.
The recovery time varies for each individual, and adults tend to recover better than children.