Unexplained loss of muscle mass

What is unexplained loss of muscle mass?

Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and lose strength over time. This can happen due to lack of physical activity, disease, or normal aging. However, unexplained loss of muscle mass refers specifically to cases where the underlying cause is unknown.

Some potential causes of unexplained muscle loss include:

• Inflammatory diseases: Certain autoimmune or chronic inflammatory diseases may break down muscle over time through increased catabolism and blocked anabolic signals.


• Neurological conditions: Disorders impacting motor neurons and nervous system signaling to muscles could potentially lead to atrophy.


• Drug side effects: Some medications like steroids, chemotherapy, and antiretrovirals list muscle wasting as a potential adverse effect.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Unexplained muscle loss typically causes weakness, fatigue, and loss of strength during daily activities. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood tests to evaluate hormone, vitamin, and mineral levels


• Muscle enzyme tests like CPK and LDH


• Imaging tests like MRI to visualize changes in muscles


• Muscle biopsies to examine muscle tissue

Treatment

Depending on the cause, treatment may involve hormone therapy, medications, physical therapy, exercise programs, and nutritional support. Getting an accurate diagnosis from your doctor is crucial so that appropriate treatment can begin quickly to stop or slow further wasting. Reach out to the knowledgeable doctors at Hormone Harmony if endocrine causes are suspected.

I hope this overview on unexplained muscle loss was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Wishing you good health on your journey.