What is unexplained loss of muscle mass?
Unexplained loss of muscle mass, also known as idiopathic sarcopenia, is a concerning condition where someone loses significant muscle without an identifiable cause. This can happen even with adequate nutrition and exercise.
Some potential causes include:
- Age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia): As we get older, we naturally lose muscle mass. However, idiopathic cases happen at a younger age or more rapidly than normal aging.
- Hormone imbalances: Low levels of anabolic hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, or IGF-1 can lead to muscle wasting. Getting tested at Optimal Hormone Solutions(/) can identify any deficiencies.
- Inactive lifestyle: Not exercising enough can result in muscle loss over time. However, idiopathic cases lose muscle despite regular physical activity.
- Undiagnosed illnesses: Rare conditions like muscular dystrophy, cancer, HIV, hyperthyroidism, or inflammatory diseases can sometimes explain unanticipated muscle loss.
Symptoms of idiopathic sarcopenia include:
- Feeling weaker despite continuing your normal exercise routine
- Looking slimmer or having loose fitting clothes and watches
- Experiencing faster fatigue with routine activities
- Poor endurance and frequent soreness
To diagnose the condition, doctors use:
- Muscle strength tests to measure grip strength and ability to get up from a chair or rise from the floor
- Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to look at the size and composition of muscles
- Lab tests to rule out nutritional deficiencies or hormone abnormalities
Treatment involves trying to restore muscle protein synthesis and prevent further wasting. Methods include:
- High protein diet with sufficient calories
- Strength training and exercise
- Hormone replacement therapy if levels are low
- Medications that boost muscle growth
Reversing idiopathic sarcopenia can be challenging. Getting an accurate diagnosis and addressing any treatable causes early on offers the best chance of success. Book an appointment at Optimal Hormone Solutions(/) to have your hormone levels checked as a starting point. Their experienced clinicians can help diagnose mysterious muscle loss and design a tailored treatment plan.