Which autonomic functions may be disrupted in Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

In Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), which primarily affects the peripheral nervous system, disruption of autonomic functions is a common clinical manifestation. The correct choice identifies heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature regulation as key areas potentially disrupted in individuals with this condition.

The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions, and in GBS, the demyelination of nerves can lead to autonomic instability. Patients may experience cardiovascular issues such as dysautonomia, which manifests as fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure. For instance, some individuals might have episodes of bradycardia or tachycardia, along with orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to dizziness or fainting upon standing. Temperature regulation can also be compromised, leading to abnormal sweating or fluctuations in body temperature.

Other options, while they may represent functions of the nervous system, are not central to the typical clinical picture of GBS. Mood swings and appetite can be influenced by many factors but are not direct results of the autonomic dysfunction seen in GBS. Similarly, while sleep patterns and digestion may be affected in a broader context of neurological illnesses, they are less specifically associated with GBS compared to the key autonomic functions of heart rate, blood pressure,