Loss of muscle - Hormone Health Clinic

What is Loss of Muscle?

Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade. This leads to a decrease in muscle mass and strength over time. There are several potential causes of muscle loss:

• Aging - As we get older, muscles naturally weaken and shrink due to changes in hormones, metabolism, and physical activity. After age 30, adults lose 3-5% of their muscle mass per decade. This condition is called sarcopenia.
• Inactivity - When muscles are not used regularly, they begin to atrophy. Being bedridden, sedentary, or wearing a cast can cause noticeable muscle loss over weeks or months. This is called disuse atrophy.
• Poor nutrition - Eating too few calories, not enough protein, or missing key nutrients (like vitamin D or zinc) can contribute to muscle wasting. This is common in malnourishment and eating disorders.
• Disease - Certain illnesses like cancer, AIDS, heart failure, and kidney disease increase inflammation and metabolic changes that degrade muscle.
• Medications - Drugs like corticosteroids reduce protein synthesis needed to maintain muscle mass.
• Injury - Direct trauma to a muscle, nerve, or tendon can cause localized wasting in the affected area. Immobilization leads to temporary atrophy.

Impacts of Muscle Loss

Impact	Description
Reduced strength	Difficulty with daily tasks like climbing stairs, carrying objects, or exercising
Higher risk of falls and fractures	Impaired mobility, coordination, and balance
Increased fatigue and weakness	Lethargy and reduced energy levels
Higher risk of disability	Loss of independence and need for assistance
Reduced metabolism	Difficulty with weight control
Greater frailty and mortality	Increased risk of health complications and death

Prevention and Treatment

Luckily, muscle atrophy can often be prevented, treated or reversed through:

Method	Description
Resistance training	Building strength and muscle mass through weight lifting or bodyweight exercises
High-protein diet	Consuming adequate calories and protein to support muscle growth and repair
Physical therapy	Rehabilitation after injury or illness to regain strength and mobility
Correcting deficiencies	Addressing nutrient deficiencies and hormonal imbalances that contribute to muscle loss
Treating underlying diseases	Managing chronic conditions that cause muscle wasting
Medications	Taking doctor-prescribed medications to support muscle health, if needed

Maintaining your muscle health is crucial as you age. Be proactive by incorporating strength training, eating a balanced diet, staying active, and visiting your doctor for regular checkups. Consider contacting Hormone Health Clinic if you suspect age-related muscle loss - we offer comprehensive hormone testing and proven hormone replacement therapy tailored to your unique needs. Our friendly medical team is ready to help you restore your strength, energy and vitality!

Conclusion

Muscle loss is a common condition that can have significant impacts on health, mobility, and quality of life. By understanding the causes and consequences of muscle atrophy, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their muscle mass and strength throughout their lifespan. A combination of regular exercise, proper nutrition, and medical care can help prevent, treat, and reverse muscle loss, promoting optimal health and well-being at any age.