Post-Polio Syndrome: A Guide for Polio Survivors and Their Families

Description

The effects of polio that occur decades after the disease has run its course—weakness, fatigue, pain, intolerance to cold, difficulty with breathing and swallowing—are often more devastating than the original disease. This book on the diagnosis and management of polio-related health problems is an essential resource for polio survivors and their families and health care providers. Dr. Julie K. Silver, who has both personal and professional experience with post-polio syndrome, begins the book by defining and describing PPS and providing a historical overview of its diagnosis and treatment. Chapters that follow discuss finding good medical care, dealing with symptoms, maintaining proper nutrition and weight, preventing osteoporosis and falls, and sustaining mobility. Dr. Silver reviews the latest in braces, shoes, assistive devices, and wheelchairs and scooters. She also explores issues involving managing pain, surgery, complementary and alternative medicine, safe and comfortable living environments, insurance and disability, and sex and intimacy. Contents Foreword Preface 1. Polio—A Look Back 2. Post-Polio Syndrome 3. Nonparalytic Polio and Post-Polio Syndrome 4. Finding Expert Medical Care 5. The EMG Controversy 6. Prevailing over Pain 7. Preserving and Protecting Your Arms 8. Sustaining Strength 9. Fighting Fatigue 10. Controlling Cold Intolerance 11. Respiratory Problems 12. Swallowing Issues 13. Exercise Essentials 14. Energy Conservation and Pacing 15. Nutrition and Weight 16. Preventing Falls and Further Disability 17. Keeping Bones Healthy and Strong 18. Mobility 19. Bracing, Shoes, and Assistive Devices 20. Wheelchairs and Scooters 21. Surgical Considerations 22. Complementary and Alternative Medicine 23. Designing a Safe and Comfortable Living Environment 24. Insurance and Disability Benefits 25. Sex and Intimacy 26. Coping with Polio and Post-Polio Syndrome Notes Index