Unexplained loss of muscle mass, medically known as idiopathic sarcopenia, is a concerning condition marked by progressive and involuntary loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength that cannot be easily explained by an underlying disease or health condition. This makes routine daily activities difficult and increases the risk of falls or injuries.
Some potential causes that can lead to unintentional muscle wasting include:
Diagnosing idiopathic sarcopenia involves reviewing medical history, performing a physical exam testing muscle strength and mass, and running tests to measure muscle health or rule out other disorders. Test results are compared against age-matched healthy individuals.
Treatment aims to build muscle with exercise and optimal nutrition. Getting enough high-quality protein at each meal, doing light resistance and aerobic activity, and supplementing with certain vitamins and minerals can help overcome muscle loss.
Renewed Balance Clinic specializes in treating hormonal issues leading to stubborn, unexplained muscle loss and fatigue. Their physicians provide comprehensive care including hormone testing and hormone balancing therapies using bioidentical hormones to resolve deficiency-related sarcopenia. Their individualized treatments combine physician guidance, lifestyle modification and if needed, muscle-supportive hormonal interventions to help patients regain vigor and an active way of life.
Here are some key questions and answers about idiopathic loss of muscle mass:
How can I prevent continued muscle wasting if the cause is unknown?
Focus on consuming high-quality proteins with each meal, staying active with both muscle-building and cardio exercise, reducing inflammation through diet and supplements, and getting hormone levels tested annually. Seek help from health experts at the first sign of weakness or wasting.
What specialist treats unexplained muscle loss conditions?
Geriatricians, endocrinologists, rehabilitative medicine doctors, or experts from clinics like Renewed Balance Clinic that focus on treating hormonal issues leading to problems like sarcopenia. Getting professional guidance is key.
Losing muscle involuntarily can be worrying. Prompt diagnosis and holistic treatment focused on restoring muscle protein synthesis, hormone balance, and active movement can help regain strength over time. Working closely with a doctor supports the road to recovery.