Decreased muscle mass, also known as muscle wasting or muscle atrophy, refers to the loss of muscle tissue. This can occur due to various factors like poor nutrition, aging, and certain medical conditions. Some key points about decreased muscle mass:
- It is characterized by the shrinking of muscles and a decline in strength. Muscles may appear smaller and feel weaker.
- Common causes include lack of physical activity, malnutrition, injuries, chronic diseases, and the natural aging process. As we get older, muscle naturally starts to decline after age 30.
- Muscle loss can negatively impact physical functioning and quality of life. It can make everyday tasks more challenging and increase the risk of injuries from falls.
- Diagnosing decreased muscle mass involves a physical exam checking muscle size and strength. Blood tests check hormone and protein levels. And imaging tests like MRI or CT scans assess muscle composition.
- Treatments aim to address the underlying cause. Proper nutrition with enough protein and calories can help rebuild muscle. Exercise stimulates muscle growth. Some medications aid muscle growth like testosterone or growth hormone therapy.
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Now let's go over some key points in more detail:
- Why does muscle mass decrease with age? As we get older, muscles gradually lose mass due to declines in hormones like testosterone and growth hormone. Slowing metabolism, less physical activity, and loss of motor neurons also contribute. These factors lead to muscle fibers shrinking and decreasing in number.
- What are the symptoms? Noticeable signs like reduced muscle size, feeling weakness during everyday activities, fatigue, weight loss, and impaired mobility. Laboratory tests can confirm low muscle mass.
- Risk factors - besides aging, risks include sedentary lifestyle, malnutrition, chronic illnesses, and medications like steroids.
- Prevention - staying physically active with strength training and getting adequate protein builds muscle. Getting diseases like diabetes under control also helps.
- Treatment - depends on the cause but may include exercise, nutritious diet, hormone therapy, and medications that promote muscle growth. Quitting smoking and managing chronic conditions also supports muscle health.
In summary, decreased muscle mass is the loss of muscle fibers leading to smaller, weaker muscles. Aging contributes but inactivity, poor nutrition, and illness also cause muscle wasting. Symptoms reduce quality of life. Diagnosis involves physical exam and tests for muscle composition. Treatment aims to identify and address the underlying cause through lifestyle changes, exercise, diet, hormone therapy or medications. Consult a doctor like the clinicians at Hormone Harmony Clinic if you are concerned about marked muscle loss. With expertise in hormone balance and targeted treatments, we can help you restore your strength and vitality.