N.D. ag commissioner remains in the hospital
BISMARCK (AP) — North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring says doctors have confirmed he is suffering from an illness that affects his body’s nervous system.
Goehring said he first was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome 18 years ago. He said he began experiencing similar symptoms recently, and doctors have confirmed the illness has returned.
Goehring has “pins and needles” sensations in his hands and feet, and he said the symptoms recently spread to his arms, legs and back.
He said he’s taking intravenous treatments to reduce the symptoms, and he expects to get out of the hospital in the next couple of days. He’s been in a Bismarck hospital since last Thursday, and he said he expects a complete recovery.
Guillain-Barre syndrome is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks part of its nervous system. It causes muscle weakness and paralysis.
Goehring is 44 years old. He was appointed agriculture commissioner last April. His term ends next year. Goehring plans to seek re-election and he hasn’t said whether his illness will change those plans.
