It can occur at any age and to persons of either sex. The incidence tends to increase with age, so that GBS is most common in people who are 50 to 80 years old. It is considered a rare disorder, with an incidence of approximately 2-3 cases per 100,000 people per year. In this case, the focus of the attack is the myelin sheath that surrounds the axons of nerve cells and sometimes, the axons themselves. Initial symptoms may be abnormal or decreased sensations in the lower limbs which progress to numbness and tingling.
Many people experience severe back pain.
Weakness in the legs and arms affects both sides equally. It is this symmetrical weakness that helps differentiate GBS from other disorders. Severity of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some people experience symptoms that are so mild, individuals may not even seek medical attention. In other cases, affected persons may experience profound weakness and almost complete paralysis, including the muscles of respiration.