Post-Polio Information

Post-Polio Syndrome - What is it?

Polio. The very mention of the word struck fear in the hearts of Canadians during the 1930's, 40's, and 50's. In the first half of the last century, poliomyelitis ravaged North America. Most of those who fell ill were children. The polio virus attacked the nervous system, causing paralysis and leaving some unable to breathe on their own. Over the course of the epidemics, thousands of people died and tens of thousands more were left paralyzed or with disabilities.

Post-Polio Syndrome, or the late effects of polio are the names given to new health problems affecting individuals who contracted poliomyelitis earlier in their lives. With the introduction of the Salk vaccine in 1955, most people thought they had seen the last of polio. Since then, the majority of men and women who survived the disease have led full and productive lives. But now, a growing number of people who had polio in the past have started to experience new symptoms.

The symptoms may vary and can include generalized weakness, muscle and joint pain, excessive fatigue or diminished endurance related to respiratory involvement and substantial decrease in functional ability. In addition, emotional difficulties often result from encountering new problems related to an old disease. People may become frustrated by doctors who misdiagnose symptoms or dismiss concerns. Many find it difficult to face the reality that they can no longer do the things they used to do. Some studies reveal that up to 50% of polio survivors may eventually experience Post-Polio Syndrome.

Acute Infection		Recovery		Remodeling		Degeneration

Post-Polio Symptoms

• Unaccustomed fatigue, that requires you to take a rest in the middle of the day, or earlier
• New joint and muscle pain
• Muscle weakness and/or loss of muscle use, even in muscles that didn't bother you when you had polio
• Respiratory problems and/or swallowing difficulties
• An intolerance for cold that causes muscle weakness, and sometimes a burning pain and/or discoloration of limbs
• Psychological stress because you don't know why you are experiencing these new aches and pains