Loss of muscle, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or break down. This leads to overall loss of muscle mass and strength. Common causes include lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, aging, and certain diseases or medications.
Some key points about loss of muscle:
- It can happen rapidly with illnesses requiring bed rest or cast immobilization. Astronauts in space also experience quick muscle wasting without gravity working against their muscles.
- As we age, muscle loss accelerates after age 50. This normal age-related loss is called sarcopenia. It may start subtly but can eventually affect balance, mobility, and independence.
- Muscle wasting diseases like ALS, muscular dystrophy, and cachexia specifically attack and degrade muscle. Certain cancers, chronic kidney disease, COPD, and heart failure also increase wasting.
- Not using a muscle can cause it to weaken and shrink over time. This disuse atrophy is often seen after injuries or with sedentary lifestyles. The saying "use it or lose it" definitely applies to our muscles.
- Poor protein intake and malnutrition hamper muscle maintenance. Getting adequate protein and nutrients helps preserve muscles, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly.
- Hormone changes like low testosterone in men, high cortisol from stress, and reduced growth hormone can accelerate loss. Hormone optimization may help for some people.
The effects of muscle loss range from frustration over strength declines to severe disability. Protecting our muscle mass proactively is crucial. Exercise, nutrition, hormone checks, and activity are key. If concerned about unexplained muscle loss, check with your doctor and request any needed blood tests.
For personalized care, the hormone and vitality experts at
Hormone Health Center can evaluate your muscle health during a consultation. Their integrated, holistic approach looks at nutrition, genetics, hormones, and lifestyle to help you optimize muscle strength and function at any age. Convenient virtual and in-person visits are available. Visit
testosterone-centers.com to learn more or schedule a muscle health assessment.
Maintaining our muscles takes work but pays dividends in mobility, independence and metabolism. Be proactive to slow muscle loss before it becomes disabling. Small changes add up over time. With attentive self-care and help from experts like
Hormone Health Center when needed, we can keep our muscle strength for years to come.