Polio Symptoms

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a serious disease that is caused by a virus. The virus thrives on the areas of the intestinal region and the back of the throat. There are three main categories of polio--abortive polio, aseptic meningitis and paralytic polio. Generally, in most cases of polio, there are no serious consequences as a result of being infected--especially if someone has received the vaccination for polio. In approximately 5 percent of non-vaccinated cases, paralysis can form, especially in paralytic polio. There are several symptoms to look for after exposure. It is important to seek medical care immediately in order to prevent further complications.

Headache

Having a severe migraine-like headache is also present with polio symptoms. The headache is generally painful and mainly located in the back of the skull rather than the front. A headache is often one of the first signs and symptoms of polio.

Muscle Pain

One of the main symptoms of all types of polio is muscle pain. The muscle pain is generally a sharp, marked pain that targets the arms and legs. The pain is difficult to relieve with over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. In some cases, a physician will prescribe a stronger pain killer, such as Vicodin or Darvocet, that will help the patient cope until the virus runs its course. Also, muscle pain may lead to muscle stiffness, spasms and weakness. The muscle stiffness can make it difficult to be mobile and complete day-to-day tasks.

Paralysis

Paralysis can also be a severe symptom resulting from paralytic polio. This is the most serious form of polio. Once infected, the virus spreads and is attracts the body's central nervous system. The area where the spinal cord and the brain is affected--resulting in paralysis. In severe cases, it can also affect the areas that control breathing--this is life-threatening and the patient may not survive. In some cases, the paralysis and breathing impairment is short lived, but the patient will have to be on a breathing machine or respirator.

Flu-like Symptoms

At the onset of polio, some people may feel like they have a simple case of the flu--that is why many do not go out to seek medical treatment at first. They allow themselves bed rest to recovery, but the symptoms generally get worse. These symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, chills, fever and weakness.

General Malaise

The presence of general malaise is similar to flu symptoms, except a little more severe. Overwhelming feelings of being sick and ill are present. Malaise also brings about bouts of discomfort along with body aches. In some cases, mild depression is brought on from the illness itself. Many patients also report being extremely tired and drowsy.