Weakness

Weakness
Synonyms	Asthenia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fatigue, muscle weakness, lethargy
Complications	Falls, injury
Onset	Sudden or gradual
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Infection, chronic disease, neurological disorders, medication side effects, dehydration, anemia, hypothyroidism, depression
Risks	Elderly, chronic illness, sedentary lifestyle
Diagnosis	Physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	Fatigue, myopathy, neuropathy, depression
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Address underlying cause, physical therapy, occupational therapy, medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Depends on underlying cause
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Weakness is a symptom represented by a lack of physical or muscle strength and the feeling that extra effort is required to move your arms, legs, or other muscles. If muscle weakness is the result of pain, the person may be able to make muscles work, but it will hurt.

Causes

Weakness may be due to diseases or conditions affecting the nervous system, such as neuropathy, ALS, Guillain–Barré syndrome, MS, Myasthenia gravis, or Stroke. It can also be a symptom of other conditions, including Diabetes, Anemia, Heart disease, Arthritis, Hypothyroidism, and Sleep disorders.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of weakness may involve a physical examination by a healthcare provider and a series of tests to determine the underlying cause. These tests may include blood tests, imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan, and nerve conduction studies.

Treatment

Treatment for weakness depends on the underlying cause. It may involve medications, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep may also help manage symptoms.

See also

• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Neuromuscular disease