POST POLIO SYNDROME (PPS)

Symptoms:
1) New muscle weakness in limbs that were originally affected or in limbs that didn't seem to have been affected at the time
2) General fatigue and exhaustion with minimal activity
3) MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN (I think this may be your problem, please consult with your local doctor for this concern)
4) Breathing or swallowing problems
5) Sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea
6) Decreased tolerance of cold temperatures

Dear this problem is a very slowly progressing condition marked by long periods of stability. Its severity depends on the degree of the residual weakness and disability an individual has after the original polio attack. People who had only minimal symptoms from the original attack and subsequently develop PPS will most likely experience only mild PPS symptoms. People originally hit hard by the polio virus, who were left with severe residual weakness, may develop a more severe case of PPS with a greater loss of muscle function, difficulty in swallowing, and more periods of fatigue.


Prevention and Treatment:
Presently, no prevention has been found. It is recommended that polio survivors follow standard healthy lifestyle practices: CONSUMING A WELL-BALANCED DIET, EXERCISING IN MODERATION, AND VISITING A DOCTOR REGULARLY.

1) Energy conservation. This is probably the most important aspect of managing PPS. It involves pacing your physical activity and combining it with frequent rest periods to reduce fatigue. Assistive devices, such as a cane, walker, wheelchair or motor scooter, also can help you conserve energy.
2) Exercise. You should go in for less strenuous activities, such as swimming or water aerobics, that you perform every other day at a relaxed pace. EXERCISE TO MAINTAIN FITNESS IS IMPORTANT, BUT BE CAUTIOUS IN YOUR EXERCISE ROUTINE AND DAILY ACTIVITIES. AVOID OVERUSING YOUR MUSCLES AND JOINTS AND ATTEMPTING TO EXERCISE BEYOND THE POINT OF PAIN OR FATIGUE. Otherwise, you may need several days' rest to regain your strength.
3) Environment at home: Adjust the environment at home that it is safe and convenient for you. This may include installation of grab bars in the shower or a raised toilet seat. Your therapist may also help you rearrange furniture or rethink certain household or work-related tasks, decreasing the number of steps you must take and increasing your efficiency.
4) Stay warm. Cold increases muscle fatigue. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature and dress in layers, especially when you go out.
5) Avoid falls. Get rid of throw rugs and loose clutter on the floor, wear good shoes, and avoid slippery or icy surfaces.
6) Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet, stop smoking and decrease caffeine intake to keep fit, breathe easier and sleep better.
I AM WRITING THE FOLLOWING POINTS JUST FOR YOUR AWARENESS, I HOPE AND WISH YOU ARE NOT SUFFERING FROM ANY OF THEM
7) Speech therapy. I recommend you to consult a speech therapist who can tell you ways to compensate for swallowing difficulties (if there are any).
8) Sleep apnea treatment. Treatment for sleep apnea, which is common among people with PPS, may involve changing your sleeping patterns, such as avoiding sleeping on your back, or using a device that helps open up a blocked airway.
DEAR PLEASE KEEP IN MIND: It's not a crime to lean on your friends and family for support. In most cases, they're looking for ways to help you, and you can help them by telling them how. You may even consider joining a support group for people with PPS. Sometimes, just talking things over with people who have similar problems enables you to better cope with the challenges at hand.
Consult your local doctor immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms.