INFORMATION ON POLIOMYELITIS

Poliomyelitis is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus. The virus enters the body through the mouth and multiplies in the intestine. It may proceed to the blood stream and into the central nervous system causing muscle weakness and often paralysis. Polio is a communicable disease which is categorized as a disease of civilization. Polio spreads through human-to-human contact, usually entering the body through the mouth due to fecally contaminated water or food.

SYNONYMS OF POLIOMYELITIS

Synonyms and related keywords:

1. Flaccid paralysis.
2. Nonparalytic poliomyelitis.
3. Paralytic poliomyelitis.
4. Wild-type poliovirus.

CAUSES OF POLIOMYELITIS

Poliomyelitis is a communicable disease caused by infection with the poliovirus. Transmission of the virus occurs by direct person-to-person contact, by contact with infected secretions from the nose or mouth, or by contact with infected feces.

SYMPTOMS OF POLIOMYELITIS

Symptoms of Poliomyelitis are:

1. Slight fever.
2. Headache.
3. General discomfort or uneasiness.
4. Sore throat.
5. Red throat.
6. Vomiting.
7. Headache.
8. Diarrhea.
9. Excessive tiredness, fatigue.
10. Irritability.
11. Neck pain and stiffness.
12. Pain front part of neck.
13. Back pain or backache.
14. Leg pain.
15. Skin rash or lesion with pain.
16. Muscle stiffness.

DIAGNOSIS OF POLIOMYELITIS

Diagnosis of polio is based on the symptoms and the clinical signs. No test is available to determine a diagnosis of post-polio syndrome. It is usually diagnosed by previously having polio and ruling out other possible causes that mimic the symptoms of post-polio syndrome. Those who were most affected by the virus at initial onset and who made the best recovery seem to have the worst post-polio symptoms.

TREATMENT OF POLIOMYELITIS

Poliomyelitis is treated according to their presence and severity. Antibiotics may be used to treat urinary tract infections. Medications, such as bethanechol, may reduce urinary retention. Analgesics are used to reduce headache, muscle pain, and spasms. Narcotics are not usually given because they increase the risk of breathing difficulty. Moist heat may reduce muscle pain and spasm. Physical therapy braces or corrective shoes, orthopedic surgery, or similar interventions may eventually be necessary to maximize recovery of muscle strength and function.