Post Polio SyndromeMy aunt who is in now in her 70s had polio as a child. Although she made a good recovery with minimal disability, she has developed symptoms her doctor has diagnosed as Post Polio Syndrome. Can you tell me what this is?
Poliomyelitis is a condition caused by the polio enterovirus. Mainly affecting children and young people, it tended to occur in epidemics throughout the developed world until the mid-1950s when a vaccine against the condition was created. With the introduction of the polio vaccine for children in the Republic, acute polio has thankfully become far less common.
It is estimated that there are about 7,500 polio survivors living in the State. Although polio was considered a chronic but stable condition after the initial acute phase had passed, some survivors are now developing debilitating new symptoms many years later.
These symptoms include muscle and joint pain, muscle weakness, severe fatigue, difficulty breathing, sleep and swallowing problems and intolerance of cold. Sufferers commonly experience mobility problems and difficulties in carrying out activities of daily living which impact negatively on the quality of their lives.
Is there any treatment for the condition?
Unfortunately, there is as yet no cure for the late effects of polio. However, much can be done to manage the symptoms, maximising the individual's level of independence and enhancing their quality of life.
Consultant neurologists, orthopaedic surgeons and respiratory physicians have much to offer depending on the symptoms experienced.
The expertise of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists is also central to the management of the late effects of the disease.
A holistic and multidisciplinary approach to include energy management, aids and adaptations of the environment, specialist treatment and psychological support can help to ease the impact of the condition.
Where can I get more information?
The Post Polio Support Group, contactable at tel: 01-8898920, www.ppsg.ie or by e-mailing info@ppsg.ie, provides a wide range of information, assistance and practical support to those suffering the late effects of polio and their families.
It also seeks to promote awareness among health professionals and the public with the aim of improving knowledge of the condition and ensuring that the needs of polio survivors are addressed.
Marion Kerr