Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio
survivors. About 20% to 40% of people who recover from polio
will later develop PPS. The onset may occur 10 to 40 years after
the initial polio attack. The exact cause is unknown. It is not
due to the original polio virus. However, the virus can cause
damage to nerve and muscle cells that may lead to the
development of PPS. Factors that may increase your chance of
developing PPS include: - Previous polio attack - Severe
original polio attack - Later age at onset of infection Symptoms
may include: - Slowly progressive muscle weakness - Muscular
atrophy - Muscle spasms - Muscle pain - Difficulty swallowing or
breathing - Intolerance to heat or cold If the symptoms during
the first attack of polio were severe, the symptoms of PPS may
also be severe. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and
medical history. A neuromuscular exam may also be done. PPS may
be hard to diagnose because symptoms come and go. The symptoms
may also overlap with other diseases