Post Polio Syndrome (PPS) / Late Effects of Polio
When they hear about Polio Survivors Ireland, many people say “I thought polio was gone”. But polio survivors are still here.
Before polio was eradicated in the early 1960s, this debilitating disease struck down many people in Ireland. Some had the asymptomatic (non-paralytic) version, many were partially paralysed and recovered, while others were paralysed partially or severely for life.
Although polio is now eradicated from Ireland and much of the world, in fact as many as 5,000 polio survivors are living in Ireland with disabilities from this disease. They may develop either Post Polio Syndrome (PPS), or, Late Effects of Polio.
Post Polio Syndrome (PPS) is a neurological condition resulting in new symptoms in people who had polio years earlier, but whose condition has been stable for at least 15 years. PPS can occur from 20 to 40 years after the initial illness, bringing new muscle weakness as the main symptom.
Late Effects of Polio are where someone doesn’t develop Post Polio Syndrome and experience new weakness, but they may have other issues as a result of walking a specific way, wear and tear on joints or over-compensation.
Symptoms of PPS
These are not age related and usually appear in the form of:
- Pain in muscles and joints
- Lack of strength and endurance, with increased muscle weakness and fatigue
- Respiratory and swallowing difficulties, often with problems relating to sleep
- Severe intolerance of cold
- Decline in ability to carry out customary daily activities such as walking
This condition is internationally recognised and research is ongoing. While there is no known cure, much can be done to alleviate the symptoms and enable the retention of an independent life, often requiring some modification of lifestyle.
Residual or Late Effects
Symptoms and issues might include:
- Arthritic changes in joints
- Pain
- Osteoporosis
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to cold
- Decline in enjoyment of everyday activities