Question 1

who gets post polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Former polio victims: This is a condition  in which muscles, weakened by previous exposure to polio, later in life have the muscles affected gradually weaken  reproducing some of the origin dysfunction.  It should gradually disappear as the polio is eliminated by public health measures.  This make take a little while since it has gotten caught up in pakistani politics causing stoppage of immunization.

Question 2

what causes "post-polio syndrome"?

Accepted Answer

Polio + aging: Post-polio syndrome results in spinal motor neurons (those that supply voluntary muscles) which were affected often decades earlier by polio virus to degenerate & stop functioning normally. Theory is that the neuron is weakened & now succumbing to continuing muscle use which overtaxes the neuron metabolism. Reduced activity is the only remedy but won't reverse damage already done.

Question 3

what are the tests for post-polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

None: At present, there are no lab tests specific ford this disease.

Question 4

what are the symptoms of post-polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Twitching and weakne: The main symptoms are muscle twitching and new onset of weakness which may be progressive long after a person has had polio.  The person should consult a neurologist for management suggestions.

Question 5

what is the definition or description of: post polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Post Polio Syndrome: Post polio syndrome is a condition that affects polio patients 30-40  years after recovery from initial infection with polio.  Symptoms include weakening of muscles that were previously affected as well as muscles that were not previously affected. Pain and fatigue are also present.

Question 6

are there any effective medications to treat post polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Muscle relaxants/PT: It depends on the problems that the person with post polio syndrome is having. Often people with this have a lot of muscle spasms and we use muscle relaxants to help with this. Physical therapy is also very helpful to people with post polio syndrome. It helps keep the muscles strong and limber. Yoga can be helpful in some patients as well to help with spasm and stiffness.

Question 7

what is the treatment for post-polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Few: Some researchers are studying immunoglobulins to reduce pain and increase function. Most therapies are geared to exercising judiciously and with supervision the muscle bundles affected.
Some life style changes may be in order and always close contact with a doctor well versed in neuromuscular disease.

Question 8

any links between post-polio syndrome and muscular distraphy?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes atrophy: Soemtimes the muscles  afected may become atrophic.

Question 9

can the pain/weakness caused by post polio syndrome be eradicated?

Accepted Answer

Unclear: Post-polio syndrome has be contraversial for yrs, and many people with that label have been found to have arthritis or other problems.  If this is, in fact, resurrection of latent polio virus or an additional attack on the motor neuron cell, we have no cure available, but do have some symptomatic relief.

Question 10

what are some treatment options for post polio syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Physical therapy: Weakness, poor balance, and pain are the more common symptoms.  Cure is not possible, but good management is possible.  You need a good therapy program and appropriate braces and equipment to be as functional as possible.  Pain relief is very important.

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Post polio syndrome drugs

A member asked:

Who gets post polio syndrome?

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What causes "post-polio syndrome"?

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What are the tests for post-polio syndrome?

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What are the symptoms of post-polio syndrome?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: post polio syndrome?

A member asked:

Are there any effective medications to treat post polio syndrome?

A member asked:

What is the treatment for post-polio syndrome?

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Any links between post-polio syndrome and muscular distraphy?

A member asked:

Can the pain/weakness caused by post polio syndrome be eradicated?

A member asked:

What are some treatment options for post polio syndrome?

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