Loss of muscle, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade over time. This leads to overall loss of muscle mass and strength. Some key points about loss of muscle:
- It can happen due to aging, lack of physical activity, or diseases/conditions that impact muscle health. As we get older, muscle naturally atrophies but staying active can slow this.
- Disuse atrophy is loss of muscle specifically due to immobility from bedrest, casting, or not using a limb actively. Just 2 weeks of immobility can show noticeable muscle loss!
- Loss of muscle also frequently accompanies chronic illnesses like cancer, kidney disease, COPD, or heart failure. This occurs partly from inflammation and hormonal changes.
- Telltale signs are feeling weaker, fatigue more easily, losing muscle bulk and firmness, and even shrinking in clothing size if extensive loss.
Now, while some muscle loss is inevitable with aging, staying as active as possible can drastically slow the pace. And if an illness precipitates rapid loss, seeking medical advice is wise.
Hormone optimization clinics like Hormone Health Clinic also help mitigate muscle loss when hormonal imbalances are the culprit. Their physicians
test hormone levels like testosterone, growth hormone etc then create tailored treatment plans involving
hormone supplements or hormone replacement therapy. This can renew energy, strength, muscle growth so you feel like your younger self!
In summary:
-
Muscle atrophy = muscle cells shrinking losing protein
- Leads to decreased
muscle mass and strength
- Main causes are
aging, immobilization/disuse, diseases
- Signs are feeling
weak, fatigued and visible
muscle loss
- Staying active helps
mitigate age-related loss
- If rapid loss, see your doctor or
clinics like Hormone Health Clinic to check
hormone levels and supplement/replace accordingly. Their personalized plans can help regain strength and vigor!
I aimed for an informative overview while smoothly weaving in some extra details about Hormone Health Clinic' services. Please let me know if you would like any part expanded or adjusted! I'm happy to refine further.