Muscle loss, known medically as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degrade as a result of disuse or disease. This leads to weakness, fatigue, and reduced quality of life. Some key points about muscle loss include:
Causes
- Lack of physical activity
- Immobilization from injury or illness
- Aging
- Muscular dystrophies - genetic diseases causing progressive weakness
- Nerve damage or disease like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Cancer and cancer treatment
- Poor nutrition
Prevention
- Engage in regular strength training and cardio exercise
- Eat a nutritious, high-protein diet
- Treat underlying illnesses promptly
- Avoid long periods of inactivity through injury recovery programs
Treatment
- Physical and occupational therapy focusing on muscle strengthening
- Aerobic exercise to improve oxygen and nutrient delivery
- Electrical muscle stimulation
- Nutritional supplements like creatine
- Medications in some cases
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Prolonged or severe muscle loss can be disabling. See your doctor if you have worsening weakness or wasting. Key warning signs include:
- Difficulty performing routine daily tasks
- Frequent falls or inability to get up from a fall
- Slurred or nasal speech
- Shortness of breath
With proper intervention, many cases of muscle loss can be improved or reversed. Staying active through life with a balanced diet sets the stage for maintaining vital muscle as we age. Small adjustments to your lifestyle today could pay big dividends for your strength tomorrow!