Blog

Polio is a serious viral infection that has affected millions of people worldwide, especially children. Different types of polio can cause mild flu-like symptoms in some cases, while in others, it leads to lifelong paralysis. This highly contagious disease spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person, making prevention crucial.

But did you know that polio isn’t just one disease? It has different forms, each affecting the body in unique ways. From paralytic polio, which causes muscle weakness and paralysis, to post-polio syndrome, which can appear years later, understanding these types is important. 

In this blog, we will discuss the different types of polio disease, their symptoms, and how vaccination has helped control this deadly virus. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know and why protecting yourself and others from polio is essential!

What is Polio?

Polio, medically known as poliomyelitis, is a viral infection caused by the poliovirus. This highly contagious virus spreads primarily through person-to-person contact, contaminated food, and water. 

Once inside the body, the poliovirus multiplies in the intestines before attacking the nervous system. The severity of polio depends on its type; while some cases remain mild and self-limiting, others lead to severe complications, including muscle weakness and paralysis. 

Polio disease mainly affects children under five years of age, but unvaccinated individuals of any age remain vulnerable to infection.

Different Types of Polio Disease

Polio is not a single condition but has different forms, each with varying severity and impact on the body. Understanding these types helps in early detection, prevention, and treatment. Below are the three main types of polio disease:-

A. Paralytic Polio

Paralytic polio is the most severe form of polio, where the virus attacks the central nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. It affects the spinal cord, brainstem, or both, depending on the subtype. Although rare, it can result in permanent disability or even death if it affects the muscles responsible for breathing.

Symptoms of Paralytic Polio

• Sudden onset of muscle weakness
• Loss of reflexes
• Severe muscle pain and spasms
• Partial or complete paralysis
• Difficulty breathing and swallowing (in some cases)

B. Non-Paralytic Polio

Non-paralytic polio is a milder form of the disease that does not cause paralysis. Also known as abortive polio, it results from poliovirus infection but does not deeply invade the nervous system. Because of its mild symptoms, this form is often mistaken for the flu.

People who suffered from polio before 2011 are still suffering from various leg and foot deformities. Polio cannot be treated, but these deformities can be connected to significant levels, changing the life of a patient.

Symptoms of Non-Paralytic Polio

• Fever and sore throat
• Headache and body aches
• Stiffness in the neck and back
• Fatigue and nausea
• Mild muscle weakness (temporary)

Recovery and Possible Complications

Most people recover from non-paralytic polio within a few days or weeks without lasting effects. However, in rare cases, the infection may progress to paralytic polio if the virus spreads further into the nervous system.  

With the use of vaccines, polio has been eliminated from India since 2011. There are no new polio cases, but there are millions of patients suffering from residual polio deformities

C. Post-Polio Syndrome (PPS)

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio survivors many years—sometimes decades—after their initial recovery. It is not caused by an active virus but is believed to result from the gradual deterioration of nerve cells that were previously damaged by polio.

Symptoms of PPS

• Progressive muscle weakness
• Joint and muscle pain
• Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
• Breathing or swallowing difficulties
• Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea

Causes and Risk Factors

• Aging and nerve wear – Over time, the nerves that once compensated for polio damage begin to weaken.
• Overuse of muscles – Polio survivors often push their bodies to compensate for past paralysis, leading to overuse and fatigue.
• Severity of initial polio infection – Those who had severe polio symptoms are more likely to develop PPS.
• Sedentary lifestyle – Those who don’t do regular exercise or yoga are likely to suffer from PPS.
• Overweight – Obesity or overweight due to any reason will lead to PPS.

Prevention and Treatment

Polio prevention primarily relies on vaccination. There are two types of vaccines:-

• IPV (Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine) – Given as an injection, it provides strong immunity without the risk of infection.
• OPV (Oral Poliovirus Vaccine) – An oral vaccine widely used in global eradication programs.

Global vaccination efforts have significantly reduced polio cases, but it is crucial to stay updated on immunization schedules. Parents must ensure their children receive all recommended polio vaccine doses to prevent the disease.

Also Read:- Facts About Polio Disease

Best Treatment For Polio-Related Deformities at Bhola Hospital, Kurukshetra (Haryana)

Expert orthopedic care can make a world of difference for individuals affected by polio-related complications. At Bhola Hospital in Kurukshetra, Haryana, Dr. Suresh Bhola, a highly experienced Orthopedic Surgeon, specializes in correcting polio-related deformities using advanced orthopedic techniques.

Why Choose Bhola Hospital for Polio Treatment?

Specialized Expertise—Dr. Suresh Bhola is a leader in Musculoskeletal Locomotor deformities and gait-related issues in children and adults.

Advanced Deformity Correction Techniques—We use Ilizarov techniques and hexapod (SUV) to correct limb deformities very precisely. Overtreatment and undertreatment are both disastrous, so precision is very, very important.

Post Surgery Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation— Under the direct supervision of Dr. Bhola, an expert team of physiotherapists works 24*7 to help the patient recover early. Physiotherapy continued throughout the patient’s stay at the hospital,

Comprehensive Treatment for Different Types of Polio & Other Conditions – Our expertise includes treating:-

• Polio-related deformities
• Cerebral Palsy complications
• Congenital limb deformities
• Post-traumatic limb deformities
• Bony non-union deformities
• Foot deformities and gait issues

Cutting-Edge Procedures—We offer innovative treatments, such as Fixator-Assisted High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO), for knee osteoarthritis, helping patients regain mobility and a better quality of life.

Regain Mobility & Confidence with Expert Care

At Bhola Hospital (Best Polio Hospital In India), we believe that every individual deserves a chance to move freely and live without limitations. Our state-of-the-art treatment, patient-centered care, and advanced orthopedic solutions make us a trusted choice for polio rehabilitation. Whether you or your loved one is struggling with polio-related complications, we are here to help.

• Visit Bhola Hospital, Kurukshetra, Haryana
• Book an appointment with Dr. Suresh Bhola today!

Polio may change lives, but with the right treatment, hope, mobility, and confidence can be restored. Let us help you take the first step toward a better future!

Global Efforts to Eradicate Polio

Organizations like WHO, UNICEF, and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) play vital roles in eliminating polio worldwide. Success stories from polio-free countries highlight the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns. However, challenges such as vaccine accessibility and misinformation continue to hinder complete eradication. Efforts remain ongoing to ensure polio becomes a disease of the past.

Conclusion

Polio remains a significant health concern despite major strides in its eradication. Understanding the different types of polio disease, including paralytic, non-paralytic, and post-polio syndrome, is essential in recognizing symptoms and seeking timely treatment. The role of vaccines in preventing polio cannot be overstated, as they have saved millions from paralysis and death. With continued global efforts, improved vaccination programs, and public awareness, the dream of a polio-free world is within reach.

FAQs