Diagnosing post-polio syndrome

Post-polio syndrome can be difficult to diagnose because t here are no specific testsfor it and symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions.

Your GP may suspectpost-polio syndromebased on your medical history and the results of a physical examination. For example,it may be suspected if:

• you had polio in the past, followed by a long period(usually at least 15 years)of no symptoms
• your symptoms have developed gradually(sudden symptoms are more likely to becaused bya different condition)

As the symptoms ofpost-polio syndrome can be similar to those of several other conditions, such as Arthritis , some tests may be needed to rule out any other possible causes of your problems. These may include blood tests and X-rays of your chest, spine or joints.

Referral to a specialist

If your GP is unsure whether you havepost-poliosyndrome, you may be referred to a hospital consultant for further testing.

Testsyou may have to rule out other conditions, or to confirm whether it's likelyyou have post-polio syndrome, may include:

• electromyography (EMG) tests to determine whether polio has damaged your nerves and muscles an EMG measures the electrical activity in your muscles and nerves
• sleep studies if you are having problems sleeping (such as sleep apnoea) or are feeling unusually tired read more about diagnosing sleep apnoea
• tests to check your heart rate and function
• a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or computerised tomography (CT) scan of your bones and muscles
• lung function tests to measure how well you can breathe, such as spirometry
• tests to investigate swallowing problems (dysphagia) read more about diagnosing dysphagia

It's possible to have post-polio syndrome alongside other conditions, so not every health problem or symptom you experience may be related to the condition.