Types, Vaccination & Treatment
Polio, or poliomyelitis, affects the nerves in the spinal cord and brainstem. It can cause paralysis and breathing difficulties in severe cases. Vaccination is the only prevention for this disease, as there is no known cure.
Type 1 poliovirus still circulates in some parts of the world, although types 2 and 3 have been eliminated. The polio virus often causes no symptoms, but when it does, flu-like and digestive symptoms may occur, with paralysis being a severe symptom of paralytic polio.
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Types of polio
Abortive poliomyelitis:
- Causes flu-like symptoms and digestive issues.
- Lasts only a few days with no long-term effects.
Non-paralytic poliomyelitis:
- Results in flu-like symptoms and intestinal problems.
- Temporary with no lasting consequences.
Paralytic poliomyelitis:
- Occurs when poliovirus infects the brain and spinal cord.
- Can lead to paralysis of breathing, speaking, swallowing, and limb movement.
- Termed spinal polio or bulbar polio depending on affected areas.
- Less than 1% of polio cases develop into paralytic poliomyelitis.
Polioencephalitis:
- Uncommon primarily affects children.
- Causes brain swelling.
Post-polio syndrome:
- Polio symptoms reappear years after the initial illness.
Symptoms
The symptoms can differ according to the type.
Abortive poliomyelitis symptoms:
Symptoms of abortion poliomyelitis are similar to those of many other disorders. They appear three to seven days after infection and persist for a few days. Among the symptoms of abortive poliomyelitis are:
Non-paralytic poliomyelitis symptoms
Non-paralytic poliomyelitis symptoms resemble those of abortive poliomyelitis and may include additional symptoms within days.
- Stiffness in the neck.
- You may have pain or a pins-and-needles sensation in your arms and legs.
- A severe headache has struck.
- Light sensitivity (photophobia).
Paralytic poliomyelitis symptoms
The symptoms of paralytic poliomyelitis are identical to those of abortive poliomyelitis or non-paralytic poliomyelitis. Additional symptoms might occur days or weeks later, such as:
- Touch sensitivity.
- Spasms in the muscles.
- Spinal poliomyelitis causes you to be unable to move your arms, legs, or both (paralysis).
- Bulbar poliomyelitis makes breathing, swallowing, and speaking difficult.
- The symptoms of bulbospinal poliomyelitis are similar to those of spinal polio.
Polioencephalitis Symptoms
Polioencephalitis symptoms can occur alone or in conjunction with flu-like symptoms. Among the symptoms are:
- Extreme exhaustion
- Anxiety
- The difficulty in concentrating
- Seizures
Post-Polio syndrome symptoms
The introduction of additional indications or symptoms, or the progression of issues, is referred to as post-polio syndrome. This typically occurs years after polio. The following are some common indications and symptoms:
When To See The Doctor?
Polio symptoms are similar to those of other viral illnesses that damage the neurological system. It is critical to obtain an accurate and fast diagnosis.
If you previously had polio, consult your doctor if you experience new or severe signs or symptoms.
Cause of polio
Polio is caused by a virus cause poliovirus. Poliovirus causes flu-like symptoms by infecting your throat and intestines, and it can then spread to your brain and spine, paralyzing you.
How is polio transmitted?
Polio is transferred via coughing or sneezing or by coming into touch with an infected person's waste (feces) (fecal-oral route). It can spread through:
- Not washing your hands after using the restroom or handling feces (like changing diapers).
- Getting contaminated water in your mouth or drinking it.
- Consuming foods that have come into contact with polluted water.
- Swimming in polluted water. When someone with diarrhea swims in water, it might get polluted.
- Sneezing or coughing.
- Being in close contact with someone who has polio.
- Contaminated surfaces should not be touched.
How is polio diagnosed?
Polio is diagnosed through a physical exam, testing of bodily fluids, and discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider. Inform your doctor if you've recently travelled. Samples of bodily fluids may be collected for testing.
- Clear your throat of saliva.
- Stool test
- Blood test
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (liquid around your brain and spinal cord).
- Because polio symptoms are similar to flu symptoms, your provider may order further testing to rule out other prevalent illnesses.
Treatment
Polio is not treated with medication. Physical therapy may be provided for those with paralytic polio. Mechanical ventilation may be needed for weak or paralysed breathing muscles. Symptoms can be improved by:
- Fluid consumption (such as water, juice, and broth).
- Heat packs are used to relieve muscular pains.
- Taking analgesics like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
- Doing physical treatment and any exercise prescribed by your doctor.
- Getting enough rest.
- Splints or other devices that promote healthy spinal and limb posture or alignment
The Polio immunisation schedule
Pediatricians recommend four polio vaccinations for children:
- The first injection should be given to the baby at the age of two months old.
- At 4 months old, the baby should receive a second shot.
- The third shot is between the ages of 6 and 18 months.
- Booster dose between the ages of 4 and 6.
If you have never been vaccinated for polio and it is advised that you do so as an adult, you will receive three shots:
- Two doses should be taken in a gap of one to two months.
- A third dosage is six to twelve months following the first.
Care at Medicover
At Medicover Hospitals, we have the most trusted team of doctors and medical experts who are experienced in providing excellent healthcare services to polio patients with compassionate care. Our diagnostic department is equipped with modern technology and equipment to conduct the tests required for the diagnosis of polio. We have an excellent team of specialists who collaborate to treat this condition with utmost precision. We provide all doses of polio vaccination to the kids.
