A practical approach to the late effects of Polio
Charlotte Leboeuf

12 CAN I PREVENT THE LATE EFFECTS OF POLIO AND IF SO HOW?

It is not really known who will develop this second phase of polio. Generally, it seems to be accepted that avoidance of overwork may have a preventive effect. We shall discuss this later in the text.

It may be a good idea for you to take it easy during periods of physical and emotional stress (which can include disease, surgery, accidents and sad and/or traumatic events).

It also makes sense to keep fit and healthy. This will make you less prone to fatigue from ordinary activities.

However, excessive exercise can have a detrimental effect on already weakened muscles such as those of the chest, so be careful if breathing is a problem.

Additional strain on your lungs can be avoided by not smoking (including passive smoking) and avoiding chest infections. If you do contract such infections it is important to have them treated promptly.

© Copyright The Lincolnshire Post-Polio Network 1997 1998 1999 2000

This document comprises an index, introduction and sixteen other sections or subdocuments. Permission for printing copies is granted only on the basis that ALL sections are printed in their entirety and kept together as a single document.

Document preparation: Chris Salter, Original Think-tank, Cornwall, United Kingdom.
Document Reference: <URL:http://www.zynet.co.uk/ott/polio/lincolnshire/library/australia/paleop/sectn_12.html>
Created: 30th December 1997
Last modification: 6th June 2000