Polio: late effects of polio
Symptoms associated with the late effects of polio or post polio syndrome are not related to age nor do all people who have had polio experience them.
The most common symptoms include:
- decreasing strength and endurance;
- pain in muscles and joints;
- breathing, swallowing or speaking difficulties;
- fatigue; and
- inability to remain alert.
There is now general agreement that, in order to minimise the severity of any new symptoms, early assessment and intervention are essential.
Early acknowledgment of new symptoms and referral to appropriate health professionals are extremely important.
After a full assessment, a rehabilitation specialist may refer you to a respiratory physician, orthotist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, speech therapist and/or pain clinic, as necessary.
Management of the late effects of polio
In the majority of cases, new symptoms of weakness, fatigue and pain can be improved and/or controlled.
For those who make the necessary changes, symptoms can be controlled or eliminated, and the quality of life can improve.
Substantial benefits can be gained by each of the following:
- Ensuring that your knowledge and understanding of the late effects of polio are kept up-to-date.
- Acknowledging that the severity of new symptoms may be exacerbated by:
- physical over-exertion;
- stress; and
- exposure to cold temperatures.
- Modifying daily routines to:
- eliminate physical over-exertion;
- conserve energy; and
- decrease psychological stress.
- Ensuring that:
- you use recommended assistive devices such as callipers, walking sticks, electric scooters, and so on;
- all exercise is pain-free and non-fatiguing;
- you keep comfortably warm; and
- you lose weight, if necessary.
Last Reviewed: 24 January 2003
