POST POLIO SYNDROME Post polio syndrome is a "second" disability affecting a large number of polio survivors. If you had polio and are experiencing unexplained symptoms, you may have the late effects of polio, often referred to as post polio syndrome. Post polio symptoms can appear in the muscles that were affected at the time polio was contracted or in previously unaffected areas. It can appear at any time and is frequently triggered by a trauma such as surgery, death in a family, emotional upheaval, or accident. Reportedly, there are 1.6 million polio survivors in the United States, many of whom will experience the late effects of polio. UNDERSTAND THAT: * Post polio syndrome is not a recurrence of the virus * The rate of decline can be very slow if properly treated * Unexplained symptoms do not mean that you are imagining things * It can strike 10-50 years after the polio attack * Your participation in the treatment is a must * Information and support are available * Support groups are vital links to educational information SYMPTOMS: * Unaccustomed fatigue--either rapid muscle tiring or feelings of total body exhaustion * New weakness in muscles--both those originally affected and those unaffected. * Pain in muscles and/or joints * Swallowing problems * Breathing difficulties * Weakness and muscle atrophy * Function decline * Anxiety * Depression * Non-recognition/denial of * Muscle spasms/twitching symptoms by medical professionals * Sleep problems As a first step, a general medical evaluation should be made to exclude other conditions which may minic post polio syndrome. Further diagnosis and treatment by a specialist may then be necessary. Some of the specialists dealing with post polio syndrome are neurologists, pulmonologists, physiatrists (physical therapy), and orthopedists. Easter Seals provides therapy services and post polio support groups throughout the United States. For more information please contact your local area Easter Seals (Information provided by the Easter Seals)