Thanks to the polio vaccine that was developed in the 1950s, there are very few people, in developed countries, that get the polio virus. However, prior to the vaccine, polio was a very wide-spread, crippling illness that affected many people.
These people can now experience late effects of the disease. These late effects are called post-polio syndrome. It is a group of symptoms that show up twenty to forty years after the initial polio infections. (Post-polio.org, “What is Post-Polio Syndrome?” Accessed April 3, 2010).
According to estimates from the National Center for Health Statistics, more than 440,000 people in the United States, are survivors of polio and may be at risk for PPS. The severity of PPS relates to the severity of the symptoms and to the extent of disability caused by the acute stage of the original illness.
People who had mild residual effects of polio tend to experience mild PPS symptoms. People who were seriously affected by the original polio or who may have had surgery to assist in recovery, will most likely experience a more severe case of PPS. (Ninds.nih.gov, “Post-Polio Syndrome Information Page” Accessed April 3, 2010).
Symptoms of Post-Polio Syndrome
The symptoms of PPS include progressive muscle weakness of both the previously affected muscles and in those muscles that were seemingly unaffected. Symptoms may include an increase in generalized fatigue, muscle weakness, muscle twitching, gastrointestinal problems and sleep disorders.
In a person with PPS, muscles can also atrophy. Muscle atrophy is the decrease in the mass of the muscle or even wasting away of the muscle. Skeletal deformities such as scoliosis, can also develop over time.
Pain in the joints is often a common symptom experienced by PPS sufferers. The more severe the muscle degeneration or wasting and the more severe the skeletal deformity, the more pain one may experience. Some may have minor symptoms while others experience more severe problems.
Although rarely life-threatening, PPS can seriously affect respiratory muscles and muscles used in eating and swallowing. As a result, lung problems can occur and nutritional needs can be affected. These symptoms should be addressed and managed by a physician as soon as they are recognized.
Management of Post-Polio Syndrome
There is no one particular treatment and there is no cure for PPS. The target of treatment is to manage the symptoms and relieve pain. Management is directed at improving quality of life, reducing pain and keeping an individual as independent as possible.
An individual management plan is designed for each individual, specific for his signs, symptoms and need. The plan may include a variety of recommendations such as bracing to support a weak, overused or stretched muscle, assistive ambulation devices such as canes or walkers to prevent falls and injuries or customized shoes to address unequal leg lengths which can lead to back and knee pain.
Other elements of a management plan may include a diet to reduce or maintain an appropriate weight. Specific exercises may be recommended to maintain strength and to minimize strain and overuse. Using a motorized wheelchair or scooter may be recommended for long-distances, postpolio.org, “What is Post-Polio Syndrome” (Accessed April 3, 2010).
The March of Dimes, “Quick Reference Fact Sheets- Post-Polio Syndrome”, recommends that polio survivors follow standard healthy lifestyle practices. These practices pertain to activity, safety, and wellness. Moderation is the key to activity participation. Frequent rest periods between activities will help conserve energy.
Activities that induce pain should be limited. When the body is cold, muscle fatigue increases and muscles tighten. Activities should be done when temperatures are warm or the body is dressed in comfortable layers of clothing.
It is important to practice safe habits to prevent falls and injuries. Some fall prevention measures include getting rid of throw rugs, keeping pathways clear of clutter and avoiding slippery, wet or icy surfaces. Other measures to avoid tripping and falling are to wear well fitting shoes and avoid clothing that hangs below the ankles.
It is also important to protect the body from disease and illness. This involves eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and getting adequate amounts of sleep. A person with post-polio syndrome should have regular, medical check-ups and should seek treatment for early signs and symptoms of infection. Other measures to combat illness include getting annual flu and pneumonia vaccinations.
Late effects of polio are different for each individual and require different types of interventions. The Mayo Clinic, “Post-Polio Syndrome, Treatment and Drugs”, discusses several types of interventions that may help to manage symptoms of PPS. These interventions include energy conservation techniques, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, sleep apnea treatment and medication therapy.
Mary Ann George - I am a registered nurse currently working as a case manager in the home health industry. My credentials include a BS degree in education, ...
