Postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy, also known as post-polio syndrome or PPS, is a condition characterized by the progressive weakness and muscle atrophy that affects individuals who previously had polio. Poliomyelitis is a viral infection caused by the poliovirus, which primarily affects the central nervous system, specifically the motor neurons of the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis.
Postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy typically occurs several decades after the initial polio infection. The onset of symptoms is gradual and marked by increasing muscle weakness, fatigue, and muscle atrophy, especially in the muscles previously affected by polio. Individuals with PPS may experience joint pain, difficulty in swallowing and breathing, sleep disturbances, and general fatigue.
The exact cause of postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from the degeneration of previously affected motor neurons. After the initial infection, surviving motor neurons compensate for the loss by forming additional connections with muscle fibers. However, over time, these neurons may become exhausted and eventually fail, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy.
There is currently no cure for postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy, and treatment focuses on managing the symptoms to improve quality of life. This includes physical therapy to manage muscle weakness and maintain mobility, assistive devices to aid mobility, and medications to alleviate pain and improve sleep. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as conserving energy, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding overexertion can also be helpful in managing the symptoms of postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy.
