Decreased muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscles in the body weaken, shrink, and lose mass due to aging, illness, or lack of physical activity. Some key points about decreased muscle mass include:
Causes
- Aging - After age 30, adults lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade. This accelerates after age 50.
- Inactivity - Not using muscles regularly leads them to waste away. Being bedridden or very inactive causes rapid loss of muscle.
- Poor nutrition - Consuming inadequate protein, calories, vitamins like vitamin D, or minerals like magnesium and zinc can cause muscle wasting.
Consequences
- Weakness - Less muscular strength for daily activities like climbing stairs, carrying bags, or exercising.
- Mobility issues - Impaired balance and coordination raise risks of falls and fractures.
- Slow recovery - Longer recuperation time from illness or injury.
- Weight gain - Muscle burns more calories than fat, so less muscle mass slows metabolism.
Risk Factors
- Age over 50
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Chronic diseases - Cancer, kidney disease, COPD, diabetes
- Injuries like broken bones requiring immobilization
- Surgery - Organ transplant, joint replacement, etc
- Medications - Corticosteroids, chemo drugs, anticonvulsants
Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors diagnose decreased muscle mass through exams checking strength and
muscle tone, along with tests like
CT scans, MRIs, and blood work.
Treatments to improve muscle mass include:
- Exercise - Strength training with weights or resistance bands
- Better nutrition - Consuming more protein and vitamins
- Treatment of underlying conditions
I hope this overview on decreased muscle mass gives you a helpful understanding of this common age-related condition. Please let me know if you have any other questions!