An Overview of Polio Treatment
Currently, there is no
polio treatment that can kill the
poliovirus. Antibiotics or other medications for polio are not effective because polio is caused by a virus. Therefore, polio treatment focuses on providing relief of symptoms as the body fights the poliovirus. This is called supportive care.
Supportive Care as Polio Treatment
Supportive care for polio treatment will depend on the symptoms that a person experiences. For those with mild symptoms or aseptic
meningitis, supportive care may include:
- Medications (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to control fever or pain
- Fluids
- Rest until the fever improves.
In these cases, after 2-10 days,
polio symptoms will usually have faded completely.
If paralytic paralysis occurs, polio treatment may be more extensive and long-term. Depending on the severity of symptoms, polio treatment can include:
- Medications to reduce pain and improve strength
- Antibiotic medications for bacterial infections
- Breathing assistance with a mechanical ventilator.
Polio Treatment: Visiting the Doctor
If someone becomes ill from possible polio symptoms, he or she should seek medical attention right away. It is important for the person to call the doctor in advance so that he or she doen't have to sit in the waiting room for a long time and possibly infect other patients.
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