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Post-Polio Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
First of all, let me state that I am not an expert in PPS, CFS, or Fibromyalgia. What I can state with firm conviction is that I am a victim of these three and that I have researched them carefully. I wanted to know their cause; what their symptoms are; what parts of the body they affect; what, if anything, can be done to reduce their effects; and what the possibilities are of a cure. I will discuss each of the three disabilities separately.
PPS is not, I repeat not, a disease. It is, however, an unfortunate effect in which the body has tried to compensate for, for over a life-time of activity. Over 1.5 million Americans were affected by the virus and whether it resulted in visible effects or not, the entire body was affected. Via the spinal cord, the virus immediately attacks portions of the brain responsible for keeping the brain awake, also controlling staying awake, and focusing attention. Also affected are the areas controlling the temperature of the body. As much as 40% of the body's motor neurons are lost even in those persons not exhibiting and visible damage. This accounts for increasing weakness later in life. My sister is a prime example. Click here for further info about my Post-polio.
FMS (Fibromyalgia Syndrome) is a widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue disorder for which the cause is still unknown- although there are those who believe that it is a by-product of other serious illnesses (such as PPS) or accidents. Fibromyalgia means pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the body- the fibrous tissues of the body. Most patients indicate that they ache all over. Their muscles feel like they have been pulled or over worked. Sometimes they twitch other times they burn. It resembles the effects of a very bad flu. The fatigue part of the syndrome has been described as "brain fatigue" in which patients feel totally drained of energy. Along with this an associated sleep disorder sometimes occurs. Many of the symptoms mimic Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and even PPS. Many researchers believe that all three are related because they share so many similar symptoms. They are collectivily referred to CIFIDS. Taken from the Fibromyalgia Network
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a severe, complex illness characterized by incapacitating fatigue, neurological problems, and a constellation of other debilitating symptoms. This debilitating disorder interferes with a person's ability to participate in activities of daily life. They may last just a short time or over a period of years. It is generally accepted by researchers that if the disorder lasts over five years, it will generally last a life-time. Even the simplest task can become a hurdle to overcome and just expending a small amount of energy can put a person right back in bed. Some of the symptoms are constant tiredness and feeling easily exhausted. There may also be recurring dull headaches; joint and muscle aches; a feeling of feverishness and chills without a high fever; depression; difficulty concentrating on tasks; and tender lymph glands- mine appear behind and below my ears and often cause severe earaches as well. parts taken from Polio Pals Place
I found an interesting comment in A Report from the CDC by Dr. Mark Loveless: A CIFIDS patient feels every day significantly the same as an AIDS patient feels two months before death. Helpful Tips that may save you some time and stress (which you do not need more of). Polio-PPS Pamphlet written by me to help understand the medical terms and help others to understand what PPS is. I have given out over 80 copies worldwide and have only asked for an address to send the pamphlet to. This way you can print out your own copy.Return to the Main Page