Loss of muscle, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade. This leads to weakened muscles that don't function properly.
Some key points about loss of muscle:
Causes
- Lack of physical activity - When muscles aren't used regularly, they begin to break down and lose mass. This is common with injuries, illnesses, or sedentary lifestyles.
- Age - Most people lose some muscle as they get older due to more sedentary living and a natural decline in hormones like testosterone.
- Poor nutrition - Not eating enough protein or calories can lead to the body breaking down muscle for energy. Underlying health issues like cancer or kidney disease can also impair nutrient intake.
Effects
- Decreased strength - Loss of muscle means you can't exert as much force with your muscles. This makes normal activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries more difficult.
- Higher risk of injury - Weakened muscles provide less support for joints and connective tissue. This increases your chance of strains, sprains, and falls.
- Impaired physical functioning - Daily tasks require sufficient strength and mobility, which are reduced with less muscle mass. Movements become slower and more tiring.
Treatment
- Exercise - Lifting weights and doing resistance training causes muscles to grow and strengthen. This stimulates muscle protein production.
- Adequate protein intake - Consuming foods high in protein like meats, eggs, and legumes provides amino acids to build and maintain muscle.
- Testosterone therapy - Injectable, oral, or topical testosterone medications can help restore muscle mass in deficient adults. Hormone Harmony offers comprehensive testosterone replacement therapy tailored to your needs.
- Other medications - Certain prescription medications may be prescribed in more severe muscle loss cases to help support muscle regeneration.
In summary, loss of muscle is characterized by the shrinking and weakening of muscle tissue, resulting in declines in strength and mobility. Preventing significant muscle loss requires staying active through exercise and maintaining adequate protein intake. If more severe, medical treatments like testosterone therapy from knowledgeable clinics like Hormone Harmony can help restore your strength. Reach out today to learn more!