Monday, May 15, 2017

Andy Griffith & GBS

Andy Griffith was diagnosed with Guillan-Barre Syndrome (GBS) at the age of 57. GBS is when the immune system attacks the body's peripheral nerves. It usually starts with the legs and can spread to the arms and face. Andy Griffith's main occupation was acting at his age of diagnosis. His main problem impeding his occupations was pain due to Guillan-Barre Syndrome. He also experienced some depression as a result of his diagnosis. An occupational therapist could help him with pain management, joint mobility, and various activities of daily living. The OT could also help treat his secondary symptoms such as depression and anxiety.
GBS is thought to be caused by an allergic reaction to a viral infection. Andy Griffith's case is thought to have been contracted after he had a bad case of the flu. Prior to his diagnosis, he was very healthy, independent, and active. After his diagnosis, he was very dependent for all of his activities of daily living. Some of his goals are to return to acting, manage his pain, learn how to cope with his pain, and maintain his career for atleast 10 more years.
Alexa offered some great information about Andy Griffith's life and his diagnosis of Guillan-Barre Syndrome!

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