Post Polio syndrome

Disease Overview

Post polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio survivors years after recovery from the initial polio illness.[7840] Symptoms and severity vary among affected people and may include muscle weakness and a gradual decrease in the size of muscles (atrophy); muscle and joint pain; fatigue; difficulty with gait; respiratory problems; and/or swallowing problems.[7840][7841] Only a polio survivor can develop PPS. While polio is a contagious disease, PPS is not.[7840] The exact cause of PPS years after the first episode of polio is unclear, although several theories have been proposed.[7842][7841] Treatment focuses on reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.[7840]

Synonyms

• Postpolio syndrome
• Post-poliomyelitic syndrome
• Postpoliomyelitis syndrome
• Post-polio muscular atrophy
• Post-polio sequelae
• Polio late effects