Unexplained loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle wasting, can be concerning as it may indicate an underlying health condition. Some potential causes include:
- Sarcopenia - This refers to age-related muscle loss that begins in your 30s. Loss of muscle accelerates after age 50. Sarcopenia is attributed to reduced hormones, decreased activity, malnutrition, and nerve damage. Renew Hormones offers customized hormone replacement therapy to help combat sarcopenia and maintain your muscle strength.
- Cachexia - This refers to muscle wasting from chronic conditions like cancer, kidney disease, congestive heart failure, COPD, and rheumatoid arthritis. The immune system sends out inflammation signals that cause the body to break down muscle. Treating the underlying disease can help improve cachexia.
- Disuse atrophy - When you're less active from an injury, being bedridden, or wearing a cast, the lack of activity leads to muscle loss. Engaging in physical therapy, exercise, electrical muscle stimulation, and proper nutrition can help to rebuild muscle.
- Nerve damage - Neurological conditions like ALS, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, polio, or spinal cord injuries can cause unexplained muscle loss. Nerve damage interrupts the muscle fibers' electrical signals causing them to weaken and shrink.
- Malnutrition - Consuming inadequate protein and calories affects muscle maintenance. Older adults, people with dental issues, individuals recovering from surgery, cancer patients, and those with eating disorders are at risk for malnutrition. Meeting with a dietitian can help ensure proper nutrition intake.
- Endocrine disorders - Diseases of the endocrine system like hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, diabetes, and abnormal cortisol can lead to increased protein breakdown. Treating the underlying condition may help minimize muscle loss.
- Medications - Certain prescription drugs can have muscle wasting side effects. Adjusting dosages under medical supervision may help.
- Low testosterone - Men with low testosterone levels are more likely to experience decreased muscle mass. Testosterone therapy can help boost lean muscle mass.
If you're experiencing concerning muscle loss, schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can run tests to investigate potential causes like your hormone, inflammation or nutritional status. Addressing any underlying health conditions is key. Engaging in strength training and eating enough protein and Calories can also help maintain muscle. Consider specialized nutrition or hormone products like Renew Hormones's supplements to replenish key building blocks for your muscles. With proper intervention, it may be possible to rebuild the muscle you've lost. Let me know if you have any other questions!