Reviewed by Nicholas S. Hill, MD, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts It is critically important that polio survivors, especially those diagnosed with post-polio syndrome, obtain proper testing, diagnosis, and management of breathing and sleep problems.The problems may result from weak breathing muscles in the chest and abdomen (diaphragm and intercostals). Pulmonary function tests (mostly noninvasive) can measure the strength …
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Aging with Post-Polio Syndrome and Sleep Problems
Researchers at the University of Washington’s Aging Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (2009) One of the first things that people notice as they grow older is a change in their sleeping patterns. The older they get, the less they sleep; or they just feel less rested when they wake up. Most people are not sure why they do not feel …
Aging Well with Post-Polio Syndrome: Addressing Physical Reasons for Sleep Problems
Researchers at the University of Washington’s Aging Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (2009) Getting a better sleep may not always happen overnight, but if your sleep problems are due to medical issues, there are ways you can manage them. Many medical problems can disrupt sleep in people with post-polio syndrome, such as breathing problems, so treating them is a first …
Fatigue (Constantly Tired)
Post-Polio Health, Volume 29, Number 1, Winter 2013 Ask Dr. Maynard Frederick M. Maynard, MD Question: I had polio in both legs at age 10 in 1953 and was unable to walk for a year. With therapy and exercise, I pretty well recovered in one leg and can walk without help. How does fatigue affect people who have had polio? I’m …
Restless Legs and Polio; Muscles Tears and Polio
Post-Polio Health, Volume 31, Number 4, Fall 2015 Question: I had what was termed a “mild” case of polio in 1951 at age 7. Other than a barely noticeable curvature of the spine and temporary weakness in the neck, I had no ill effects and was back in full action within a couple months. I played sports throughout high school and …