Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink and the overall muscle tissue breaks down. This leads to gradual loss of muscle strength over time. Some key points about muscle loss:
- What causes it? Muscle atrophy can be caused by lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, aging, and diseases or injuries. As we get older, we naturally lose muscle mass due to lower hormone levels and decreased activity. Other factors like bed rest, immobilization, and certain medications can also accelerate muscle loss.
- What are the symptoms? Signs of muscle loss include feeling weak while performing daily activities, frequently feeling tired or fatigued, stiffness, slowed reflexes, and aches and pains. Muscle loss may also be visually apparent after some time.
- Risk factors: Older adults over 50 years old are at higher risk. Other risk factors include chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disease, heart disease, injuries like broken bones requiring immobilization, surgeries requiring extended bed rest, neurological diseases like stroke, and inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Prevention: Engaging in resistance training and getting adequate protein can help build muscle mass. Staying physically active also signals to our body to keep muscle. Getting enough rest, vitamins, and minerals supports overall health.
- Treatment: Eating more protein while also doing resistance and strength exercises can help rebuild lost muscle. Getting treatment for any underlying medical issues can aid this. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to aid muscle growth.