Muscle loss, also known as muscle wasting or muscle atrophy, refers to the gradual loss of muscle tissue. This can occur due to various reasons such as aging, illness, or inactivity. Muscle loss leads to decreased strength and functional impairment, impacting daily activities and quality of life.
Some key points about muscle loss:
- Causes - Common causes include aging (sarcopenia), malnutrition, chronic diseases, and immobility or disuse. As we get older, muscles naturally atrophy over time. Bed rest, sedentary lifestyle, and certain medications can accelerate loss.
- Symptoms - Noticeable symptoms are feeling weak, fatigue, loss of endurance, declines in strength and function, muscle shrinking, and weight loss. Routine tasks like climbing stairs may become difficult.
- Diagnosis - Doctors diagnose muscle wasting via medical history, physical exam, blood work, and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans. They'll assess muscle size, power, endurance and look for underlying health issues.
- Prevention - Eating nutritious protein-rich foods, staying active, and doing strength training helps maintain muscle mass. Seniors may benefit from exercise programs tailored to ability and safety.
- Treatment - Eating more calories and protein, exercising, getting adequate rest, reducing stress, and correcting nutrient deficiencies can help. Certain medications aid muscle recovery. If an underlying illness causes wasting, treating it can make a difference.
No matter your age, protecting your muscles ensures you stay active and independent. At The Hormone Hub, we help combat muscle loss through customized fitness, nutrition and hormone therapy programs. Our experts design integrative treatment plans to build strength, energy and vitality. Call us today for a free consultation. Maintaining your muscles keeps you stronger longer!