It has been almost a year since I first experience GB. I was hospitalized for 7 weeks and on a ventilator for 13 days.
I am blessed with the speed of recovery and am now able to do most tasks without too much difficulty. However, I find that I get out of breath very quickly when doing something strenuous. My blood -oxygen level has improved to around 92%.
I went into a hot tub for some relaxation and found that when I was neck deep in water I was unable to inhale....I tried but no air came into my lungs....what a shocker! When I stood up I was able to breathe normally. I am now able to get mid chest deep into water and inhale about 60%. However, I am not able to swim and breathe.....very disappointing.
I am wondering if anyone in our "exclusive club" has had this experience and if so, what is your rate of recovery back to normal breathing, if possible.
I am considering seeing a pulmonologist to get answers to some of my questions.
I was diagnosed with GBS on 26 October 2012. I was in ICU for 5 weeks on a ventilator and totally dependant on others for my every need. After my sixth week in hospital I was sent home to recover. I made a remarkable recovery but last summer was only able to swim with difficulty. This summer I am pleased to say that I am swimming almost completely normally, so hang in there Bob.
Early morning deep breathing exercises outside in the fresh air are marvelous.
Hi Lynne! Thanks so much for your encouraging email and I will "hang in there". It is interesting to note that I was admitted to the hospital exactly one month later, November 26, and also in intensive care for 5 weeks.
It would be helpful for me to continue our discussion, especially as related to the "dependency on others" issue. That was a very difficult time for me as I am sure it was for you. I still have negative memories that haunt me every now and then.
You can email me direct at: bobb@cableone.net
Thank you again for responding to my email and I look forward to hearing from you.
Bob
Lynne said:
Hi Bob,
I was diagnosed with GBS on 26 October 2012. I was in ICU for 5 weeks on a ventilator and totally dependant on others for my every need. After my sixth week in hospital I was sent home to recover. I made a remarkable recovery but last summer was only able to swim with difficulty. This summer I am pleased to say that I am swimming almost completely normally, so hang in there Bob.
Early morning deep breathing exercises outside in the fresh air are marvelous.