Unexplained loss of muscle mass - Second Spring Hormone Clinic

What is unexplained loss of muscle mass?

Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle wasting or atrophy, can happen for various reasons. When the cause is unknown or idiopathic, it is termed unexplained loss of muscle mass.

Some potential causes for muscle loss include:

• Inadequate nutrition - Not consuming enough protein or calories to maintain muscle.
• Inflammation - Chronic inflammation can accelerate muscle breakdown.
• Hormone imbalances - Low testosterone or growth hormone levels.
• Nerve damage - Issues with nerves innervating muscle can cause atrophy.
• Inactivity - Not using muscles leads to wasting.

Symptoms of unexplained muscle loss may include feeling weak, rapid fatiguing of muscles, shrinking thigh muscles, weight loss, poor endurance, low libido, erectile dysfunction, and depression.

If you are losing muscle rapidly for unclear reasons, it is important to see your doctor for a full evaluation. Blood tests can check hormone, vitamin, mineral, and inflammatory levels. Your doctor may examine nerves and muscles for abnormalities as well.

Potential treatments depend on the underlying cause but may include:

• Nutritional interventions
• Hormone replacement therapy such as testosterone or HGH
• Medications to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy and exercise

Reversing muscle loss can be challenging but is vital for maintaining strength, performance, metabolism and longevity. The physicians at Second Spring Hormone Clinic specialize in diagnosing and treating muscle loss due to aging, hormone decline or illness. We provide customized treatment plans involving lifestyle, diet and advanced hormone therapies to help patients regain their vitality and strength.

I hope this overview on unexplained muscle loss was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.