Post-polio syndrome: As a child my partner contracted polio, but recovered reasonably well and got on with life. Now in his mid-60s, he is developing problems which his doctors say may be the late effects of polio. What exactly does this mean?
Before the advent of the childhood vaccination programme against the condition, polio was a highly infectious disease mainly affecting children under the age of five. Although the illness is now thankfully rare here, poliomyelitis affected many people in Ireland during the 1940s and 1950s. As the virus invaded the nervous system, sufferers experienced varying degrees of paralysis and disability. Although recovery was typically long and slow, many regained enough independence to lead full lives. However, it has been estimated that up to 60 per cent of Irish polio survivors will experience late effects of polio or "post polio syndrome" years after their original infection by the polio virus.
He is complaining of fatigue and problems sleeping, but are there other symptoms associated with post polio syndrome that we should be aware of?
The range of symptoms are varied but can include pain in muscles and joints, lack of muscle strength, respiratory and swallowing difficulties and cold intolerance. Sleep problems, arthritis and a decline in ability to carry out daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs and dressing are also common.
Is there any treatment?
Once a definitive diagnosis of post polio syndrome has been made, the aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle modification is recommended to avoid over exerting the body.
Pacing, which involves the individual breaking activities into small modules of time and effort, will help control fatigue and muscle weakness. Your partner would also benefit from the expertise of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists and counsellors.
For further information and support contact the Post Polio Support Group at 01 8730338 or e-mail info@ppsg.ie.