What is Muscle Loss?
Muscle loss, or muscle atrophy, is the diminishing of muscle tissue, leading to decreased strength and functionality. It can affect various body parts, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Identifying the signs early can help in effective management and treatment.
Common Causes of Muscle Loss
Muscle loss can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Aging: Natural degradation of muscle mass over time.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity.
- Medical Conditions: Chronic diseases such as cancer, COPD, or heart failure.
- Nutritional Deficiency: Inadequate protein intake or poor diet.
- Injury or Surgery: Prolonged immobilization.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Consider seeking medical advice if you experience:
- Unexplained Muscle Weakness: Sudden or gradual muscle loss without a clear reason.
- Chronic Fatigue: Persistent tiredness affecting daily activities.
- Decreased Mobility: Difficulty in performing regular tasks.
- Noticeable Muscle Wastage: Visible thinning of muscles.