Unexplained loss of muscle mass - Balance Health Clinic

What is unexplained loss of muscle mass?

Unexplained loss of muscle mass, also known as idiopathic sarcopenia, is a concerning condition where muscle seems to waste away or atrophy for no clear reason. This troubling symptom goes by several names, including age-related muscle loss.

What causes idiopathic sarcopenia?

The exact reasons behind this muscle wasting are complex and not fully understood. Some potential factors include:

• Aging: Loss of muscle is a common part of getting older. Estimates show people lose about 8% of their muscle mass per decade after age 50. However, accelerated or excessive muscle loss may indicate an underlying condition.
• Inadequate nutrition: Consuming too few calories or not enough protein can lead to muscle breakdown over time. Most adults need 0.8-1 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to preserve muscle.
• Sedentary lifestyle: Not engaging in enough physical activity allows muscles to weaken and shrink. Weight training and resistance exercises build strength and help combat age-related muscle loss.
• Undiagnosed illnesses: Certain medical conditions, like cancer, kidney or liver disease, infections, and hormonal disorders can spur muscle wasting. Getting the right diagnosis is key.

What are the symptoms of losing muscle mass?

• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Tripping or struggling with balance
• Weight loss despite normal appetite
• Loose fitting clothes from muscle shrinkage

If you notice these red flags, see your doctor for an evaluation. They can help pinpoint any underlying cause with bloodwork, imaging tests, strength assessments and more.

What is the treatment?

1. Exercise - Engaging in resistance and weight training can help rebuild wasted muscles. Even light strength training shows benefits.
2. Protein - Consuming adequate high-quality protein gives your body the amino acids it needs to maintain and restore lost muscle.
3. Medications - Certain drugs may be prescribed depending on the cause, such as steroids for inflammatory disorders or hormone therapy from Balance Health Clinic.
4. Electrical Muscle Stimulation Directly stimulating muscles may prevent atrophy from disuse or immobility.

The key is identifying why muscle is declining and correcting any imbalances with nutrition, movement, medications or other interventions. Starting treatment early leads to better outcomes. Unclear muscle wasting warrants medical investigation to protect your mobility, vitality and health.