Muscle wasting

Muscle wasting, also known as muscle atrophy, is a condition characterized by a decrease in muscle mass and strength. It can occur as a result of various diseases, injuries, or aging.

Causes

Muscle wasting can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can lead to muscle wasting. This is especially common in individuals who are bedridden or immobilized for long periods.
• Malnutrition: Inadequate intake of protein and calories can lead to muscle wasting.
• Aging: As people age, they naturally lose muscle mass. This process, known as sarcopenia, can lead to muscle wasting.
• Neurological diseases: Conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson's disease can cause muscle wasting.
• Cancer: Some types of cancer can cause muscle wasting, a condition known as cachexia.

Symptoms

The symptoms of muscle wasting can vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include:

• Loss of muscle mass
• Weakness
• Difficulty moving or performing daily activities
• Fatigue
• Unintentional weight loss

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of muscle wasting typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and various tests, such as:

• Blood tests: These can help identify any underlying conditions that may be causing muscle wasting.
• Imaging tests: These can help visualize the muscles and identify any abnormalities.
• Muscle biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of muscle tissue may be removed and examined under a microscope to determine the cause of muscle wasting.

Treatment

Treatment for muscle wasting typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include:

• Physical therapy: This can help improve muscle strength and function.
• Nutritional therapy: This can help ensure the body is getting the necessary nutrients to maintain muscle mass.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be used to slow the progression of muscle wasting.

See also

• Muscle hypertrophy
• Muscle weakness
• Muscular dystrophy

Muscle wasting Resources
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