Polio

Overview

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a viral disease that can cause nerve injury and lead to partial or full paralysis. While rare today due to widespread vaccination, post-polio syndrome and long-term effects may still require specialist rehabilitation care. At Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we support patients who are living with the long-term consequences of polio through tailored inpatient neuro-rehabilitation programmes.

What Is Polio?

Polio is caused by the poliovirus, which primarily spreads through contact with infected faeces or respiratory droplets. Most cases are asymptomatic, but in severe instances, the virus attacks the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis, often in the legs.

Causes of Polio

Polio is caused by the poliovirus, which primarily spreads through:

• Faecal-oral route: consuming food or water contaminated with infected faeces
• Person-to-person contact: through saliva or respiratory droplets

The virus invades the nervous system and, in severe cases, damages motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis.

Symptoms of Polio

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection:

Mild/Non-Paralytic Polio Symptoms:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Muscle tenderness or stiffness

Severe/Paralytic Polio Symptoms:

• Sudden limb weakness or paralysis (often asymmetrical)
• Loss of reflexes
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Muscle pain and spasms

Post-Polio Syndrome (Develops Years Later):

• Loss of endurance or mobility
• Progressive muscle weakness
• Fatigue and joint pain
• Respiratory or swallowing issues

Treatment for Polio

There is no cure for polio, but supportive and rehabilitative treatment is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. At Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide:

• Inpatient Neurological Rehabilitation
• Physiotherapy: to rebuild muscle strength and flexibility
• Occupational Therapy: to support independence in daily activities
• Speech and Language Therapy: for those with swallowing or speech difficulties
• Respiratory Support: including non-invasive ventilation when needed
• Pain Management
• Custom Orthotics and Mobility Aids

Specialist Support at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Our experienced multidisciplinary team tailors care plans for each patient, focusing on maximising function, independence, and overall well-being. Whether managing post-polio syndrome or long-term disability, we provide evidence-based care in a calm, compassionate environment.

Our Resident Neurologist

Dr Weatherall is very welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.

Dr Mark Weatherall

Consultant Neurologist

Field