Editing Polio (section)

==== Bulbospinal polio ====
Approximately 19 percent of all paralytic polio cases have both bulbar and spinal symptoms; this subtype is called respiratory or bulbospinal polio.<ref name=PinkBook2021 /> Here, the virus affects the upper part of the cervical spinal cord ([[cervical vertebrae]] C3 through C5), and paralysis of the [[Thoracic diaphragm|diaphragm]] occurs. The critical nerves affected are the [[phrenic nerve]] (which drives the diaphragm to inflate the [[human lung|lungs]]) and those that drive the muscles needed for swallowing. By destroying these nerves, this form of polio affects breathing, making it difficult or impossible for the patient to breathe without the support of a [[medical ventilator|ventilator]]. It can lead to paralysis of the arms and legs and may also affect swallowing and heart functions.<ref name= Hoyt/>