Poliomyelitis
Alternative names:
infantile paralysis; polio
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to control symptoms while the infection runs its course.
Lifesaving measures, particularly assistance with breathing, may be necessary in severe cases.
Symptoms are 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 (heating pads, warm towels, etc.) may reduce muscle pain and spasm.
Activity is limited only by the extent of discomfort and the extent of muscle weakness. Physical therapy, braces or corrective shoes, orthopedic surgery, or similar interventions may eventually be necessary to maximize recovery of muscle strength and function.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome varies with the form (subclinical, nonparalytic, or paralytic) and the site affected. If the spinal cord and brain are not affected, which occurs in over 90% of cases, complete recovery is likely.
Brain or spinal cord involvement is a medical emergency that may result in paralysis or death (usually from respiratory difficulties).
Disability is more common than death. Lesions high in the spinal cord or in the brain are associated with greater risk for respiratory difficulty.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms of poliomyelitis occur.
Call your health care provider if someone close to you has developed poliomyelitis and you are not immunized against the disorder.
Call your health care provider if your child's polio immunization (vaccine) is not up-to-date.
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