Post-polio Syndrome
by
Michelle Badash, MS DefinitionPost-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio survivors. About 20%-40% of people who recover from polio will later develop PPS. The onset may occur 10-40 years after the initial polio attack. CausesThe exact cause is unknown. It is not related to the original polio virus itself. Instead, the syndrome is due to nerve and muscle damage that may have been caused by the original infection. Risk FactorsFactors that may increase your chance of developing PPS include:
SymptomsSymptoms may include:
If the symptoms during the first attack of polio were severe, the symptoms of PPS may also be severe. DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A neuromuscular exam may also be done. PPS may be hard to diagnose because symptoms come and go. The symptoms may also overlap with other diseases. Testing often involves electromyography. This measures how well your nerves and muscles are communicating. Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with an MRI scan. Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:
TreatmentTreatment focuses on managing symptoms. The goals are to:
Treatment may include:
PreventionThere are no current guidelines to prevent PPS. Polio survivors who keep physically fit may have a reduced risk of PPS. RESOURCES:March of Dimes http://www.marchofdimes.org Post-Polio Health International http://www.post-polio.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca When It Hurts to Move—Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://whenithurtstomove.org References:Dalakas M. IVIg in other autoimmune neurological disorders: current status and future prospects.
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Postpolio syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/postpolio-syndrome. Updated June 15, 2015. Accessed August 14, 2017.
Post-polio syndrome fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Post-Polio-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet. Updated April 16, 2014. Accessed August 14, 2017. What is post-polio syndrome? Post-Polio Health International website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 14, 2017. Last reviewed September 2018 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP Last Updated: 9/8/2020 | |
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