Frequently during acute poliomyelitis, the bladder muscle, or detrusor, was paralyzed which resulted in retention of urine. Although bladder function usually returned, some individuals required catheterization. After the acute phase of the disease, some individuals experienced subsequent weakened bladder contractions (Timmermans et al., 1965).
Although incontinence and other urinary symptoms are common among older post-polios, there is no evidence to support that they result directly from the polio history. (For further reading, see Bozeman & Anuras, 1991; Butters & Merritt, 1987; deLeval et al., 1984; Johnson et al., 1996)
Common in the general population of this age group, these symptoms can be due to pelvic floor stretching or weakening, especially in women who had children. Infrequent urination increases the risk for bladder infections (Johnson & Gary, 1995) and may be a result of mobility and accessibility problems. Incontinence in men most often is due to prostate problems.
Urinary/voiding problems, regardless of the symptoms, should not be ignored as they may be associated with disorders that could have serious consequences. Any symptoms of burning, bleeding, pain, or passing of blood or mucus should be reported so that infection or other potentially life-threatening conditions may be treated (Johnson & Gary, 1995). Urinary incontinence, regardless of the severity, can be managed, and many times eliminated, once the cause is determined. Treatment options include noninvasive techniques such as pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises using biofeedback, behavior modification protocols to retrain the bladder, and/or pharmacotherapy. However, some cases of urinary incontinence may require more invasive surgical intervention to correct the problem.
References
Bozeman, T., & Anuras, S. (1991). Gastrointestinal manifestations in post-polio syndrome. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 86, 1367.
Butters, M.A., & Merritt, J.L. (1987). Neurogenic bladder and the post polio syndrome [Abstract]. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 68, 620.
deLeval, J., Chantraine, A., & Penders, L. (1984). The urethral rhabdosphincter (Part 3): Urodynamic and physiopathologic exploration. J. d'Urologie, 90, 529-551.
Johnson, V.Y., & Gary, M.A. (1995). Urinary incontinence: A review. Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing, 22(1), 8-16.
Johnson, V.Y., Vordermark, J.S., & Hubbard, D. (1996). Urologic manifestations of the post-polio syndrome. Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing, 23(4), 218-223.
Timmermans, L, Bonnet, F., & Maquinay, C. (1965). Urological complications of poliomyelitis and their treatment. Acta Urologica Belgica, 33, 409-426.