Although swallowing difficulty (dysphagia) is not recognized as a primary symptom of the late effects of polio, many cases have been reported in the literature (Coelho & Ferranti, 1988, 1991; Ivanyi et al., 1994; Sonies & Dalakas, 1991). Incidence of dysphagia in polio survivors has been estimated to be approximately 18% (Coelho & Ferranti, 1991; Cosgrove et al., 1987) and …

The goal of a support group is to empower its members with the tools necessary to make adjustments needed to continue a life of dignity and independence. Contrary to the image sometimes portrayed in the popular media, healthy support groups are not “pity-parties” and do not promote the idea that “misery loves company.”  Post-Polio Health International supports group leaders and …

Spirituality has been variously described as a person’s relationship with God, the holy, or the whole; beliefs about the meaning, purpose, or mission of life; feelings of interconnection with the universe or all living things; commitment to values, ideals, and altruism; and being open to the mystery of existence. Spirituality is not necessarily associated with religious membership, but is related …

An increasingly popular way of connecting with others is through social media. While it does not, and should not, replace face-to-face interactions, social media can be a useful tool for keeping in touch with others and staying up to date on current events and trends.  Before setting up an account on a social media site, one should consider what they’d …

The health hazards of smoking, ranging from cancer to colds, stomach ulcers, amputations, hip fractures, and even back pain, plus increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, are well known. The benefits of quitting are substantial. Smoking is a significant health risk for anyone with respiratory insufficiency (see Underventilation) and/or a history of respiratory involvement by polio and should be …

Defined as the lack of breathing through the nose and mouth for at least ten seconds, sleep apnea can be obstructive or central or mixed. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when tissues in the throat collapse and block airflow in the lungs during sleep, although efforts to breathe continue. This is manifest as inspiratory snoring. Central apnea occurs when the …

Body positioning during sleep is an important consideration for polio survivors with severe weakness and postural or joint deformities. If the individual sleeps on his or her side, the arm should be kept in front and not under the chest wall to prevent numbness in the arm. A two-inch soft foam pad between the sheet and mattress may be more …

Oily skin and dry skin are common to almost all people at one time or another and can be managed, if properly recognized.  Oily skin has been associated with many neurological diseases – poliomyelitis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, etc. Gentle washing with soap and water is the best recommendation. Flaking does not always mean dry skin, but can represent a condition …

Sexuality refers to a dimension of one’s personality expressed through sexual feelings, physical sensations, attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs. Sexuality is a primary way “humans share intimacy” (Schover & Jensen, 1988). Masters and Johnson (1986) define human sexuality as multidimensional: biological, psychosocial, behavioral, clinical, and cultural. Cultural and family attitudes about sexuality and disability significantly impact survivors’ personal experiences and perspectives, and …

The self-help movement evolved to fill a gap by providing answers to groups whose unique needs were unmet by the medical professions, social and human service organizations, family units, religious institutions, and others. Self-help is a social resource that individuals in need use so they do not have to confront their problems in isolation (Katz, 1998). The strength of the …