Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink and the overall muscle tissue breaks down. This leads to gradual loss of muscle strength over time. Some key points about loss of muscle mass include:
- It can happen due to aging, lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, and certain illnesses or injuries. As we get older, there is a natural decline in muscle mass after age 30.
- Sarcopenia is the medical term for age-related muscle loss. It progresses at a rate of 0.5-1% loss per year after age 30.
- Muscle atrophy can also occur from disuse atrophy when part of the body is immobilized in a cast or from lack of gravity in space. The unused muscles begin to shrink and weaken.
- Cachexia is severe weight and muscle loss often associated with cancer, HIV/AIDS, heart failure, kidney disease, and other chronic conditions.
- Loss of muscle mass can reduce strength and functional mobility, increase risk of falls and fractures, and negatively impact quality of life.
- Engaging in resistance training and getting adequate protein and calories in one's diet can help maintain muscle mass, especially as we age. The saying "use it or lose it" applies here.
- If someone experiences rapid muscle loss without explanation or with other troubling symptoms, it's important to see a doctor to identify potential underlying causes.
- Speak to your doctor if you notice progressive muscle thinning in the arms or legs, feeling tired despite adequate rest, trouble rising from a chair, or difficulty climbing stairs.
- Early intervention, proper treatment of medical conditions, exercise, and nutrition can help prevent, slow or reverse muscle loss to some degree.