Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscles in the body weaken, deteriorate, and reduce in size. This leads to a loss of strength and function. There are two main types of muscle loss:
- Sarcopenia: Age-related loss of muscle and strength that begins around age 30 and progresses more rapidly after age 60. Contributing factors include reduced exercise, malnutrition, hormonal changes, and nerve damage.
- Cachexia: Excessive muscle loss due to underlying illness like cancer, heart failure, AIDS, sepsis and kidney disease. It causes weight loss and fatigue.
Some key signs of muscle loss include:
- Decreased muscle strength
- Reduced muscle size, bulk and tone
- More fatigue, weakness and exhaustion with routine activities
- Weight and fat loss
- Impaired mobility and frequent falls
- Poor recovery after illness or injury
Muscle loss can severely impact
quality of life. Without strength for movement, individuals lose independence and the ability to complete self-care tasks like bathing, dressing, and household chores. The health risks are also concerning – muscle loss is linked to
higher mortality rates in older populations.
Fortunately, muscle loss can often be reduced through proactive steps:
- Exercise regularly: Weight bearing, resistance, and range of motion exercises build muscle.
- Eat adequate protein: Shoot for 0.5-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily.
- Manage medications and health conditions: Follow treatment plans to resolve underlying illness.
- Consider supplements: In some cases, creatine or vitamin D might be recommended.
By understanding the causes, symptoms and preventive steps for muscle loss, we can help protect our mobility and independence as we age. If you notice sudden changes in strength or function,
consult your doctor to identify any underlying conditions requiring treatment. With proper self-care, healthy lifestyle habits, medical care and supervised exercise, significant muscle loss may be prevented.