POSTPOLIO Meaning and
Definition
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Postpolio is a medical term that refers to a condition called post-polio syndrome (PPS). It is a long-term, often late-onset condition that affects people who previously had poliomyelitis or polio. Polio is a viral infection that primarily affects the nerves, leading to paralysis or muscle weakness.
Postpolio syndrome typically occurs many years after the initial polio infection. It is characterized by the re-emergence or worsening of symptoms experienced by polio survivors. These symptoms may include muscle pain, fatigue, weakness, muscle atrophy, joint pain, breathing difficulties, and difficulties with swallowing or speaking. Individuals with postpolio may also experience sleep apnea, sleep disturbances, and increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
The exact cause of postpolio syndrome is unknown, but it is believed to result from the deterioration of nerve cells and the overuse of the previously affected muscles. The condition is not contagious, as it is a consequence of prior polio infection. While the severity and progression of symptoms can vary between individuals, postpolio syndrome is generally a slow-progressing condition.
Treatment for postpolio syndrome focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may involve physical therapy to maintain muscle strength, pain management strategies, assistive devices to enhance mobility, and lifestyle modifications. Regular medical check-ups and consultations with healthcare professionals who specialize in postpolio syndrome are important for effectively managing the condition.
Common Misspellings for POSTPOLIO
- oostpolio
- lostpolio
- -ostpolio
- 0ostpolio
- pistpolio
- pkstpolio
- plstpolio
- ppstpolio
- p0stpolio
- p9stpolio
- poatpolio
- poztpolio
- poxtpolio
- podtpolio
- poetpolio
- powtpolio
- posrpolio
- posfpolio
- posgpolio
- posypolio
Etymology of POSTPOLIO
The word "postpolio" is derived from a combination of two elements: "post" and "polio", each with their own etymology.
1. "Post" comes from the Latin word "post" meaning "after" or "behind". It has been used in English since the 16th century, incorporating its Latin meaning.
2. "Polio" is short for poliomyelitis, which is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. The term "polio" originated in the late 19th century, from Greek roots "poli-" meaning "gray" and "myelos" meaning "marrow". This is because the virus primarily affects the spinal cord, which contains the gray matter.
Combining these two elements, "postpolio" refers to conditions or symptoms that occur after a person has recovered from the acute phase of polio.
