Loss of muscle - Vitality Clinic

What is loss of muscle?

Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degrade as a result of disuse or disease. This leads to a loss of muscle strength, coordination, and endurance.

Some key points about muscle loss:

• It can happen at any age, but is more common as we get older. Age-related muscle loss is called sarcopenia.
• Many factors can accelerate muscle loss, like immobility, malnutrition, aging, and diseases (e.g. cancer, kidney disease, etc.).
• Muscle loss leads to fatigue, weakness, increased risk of falls and fractures, and reduced quality of life.
• Strength training and proper nutrition, especially protein intake, can help prevent and even reverse muscle loss.

What causes muscle loss?

• Lack of physical activity - Muscles need stimulation through regular exercise. Without it, they shrink. Being bedridden accelerates muscle loss.
• Poor nutrition - Not eating enough calories or protein leads to muscle breakdown. This is common in hospital patients.
• Diseases - Certain illnesses like cancer, kidney disease, diabetes hasten muscle loss by increasing inflammation and protein breakdown.
• Aging - Most people lose 8% of their muscle mass per decade after age 50 due to hormonal changes and decreased activity.

What are the symptoms of muscle loss?

• Fatigue and weakness
• Frequent falls or fractures
• Difficulty performing daily tasks
• Weight loss, loose skin
• Poor mobility and coordination

How can you prevent muscle loss?

• Exercise regularly - Strength training is best, but any physical activity helps. Yoga and Pilates are options.
• Eat enough protein - Shoot for 0.5-1 gram per pound of body weight daily.
• Manage chronic illnesses - Follow treatment plans for conditions affecting muscle health.
• Get adequate sleep and manage stress - Lack of sleep and high stress accelerates muscle loss.

What is the treatment?

• Exercise - Strength training helps rebuild muscle. Consider working with a physical therapist or trainer.
• Follow a high protein diet with sufficient calories. Supplements help those with poor intake/appetite.
• Treatment of underlying diseases – Managing health conditions can slow muscle loss.

In summary, muscle loss is a common condition with various causes. Staying physically active and eating well can help prevent muscle atrophy. Seeking medical care is key for those with accelerated muscle loss. With proper treatment, we can maintain muscle health into old age.