Sarcopenia

Acute

What is Sarcopenia ?

Sarcopenia is a condition where people lose muscle strength and mass as they age. This makes it harder to do everyday tasks like walking, lifting, or climbing stairs. It usually affects older adults but can also happen earlier due to illness or inactivity.

Symptoms

  • Weak muscles
  • Feeling tired when walking or climbing stairs
  • Difficulty getting up from a chair or bed
  • Slower walking speed
  • More frequent falls or fear of falling

Complications

  • Increased risk of falls and fractures
  • Loss of independence, needing help with daily activities
  • Longer recovery after illness or surgery
  • Lower quality of life due to weakness and reduced mobility
  • Increased risk of other health problems, like frailty and disability

Causes

  • Aging (natural muscle loss over time)
  • Lack of physical activity or long bed rest
  • Poor nutrition, especially low protein intake
  • Chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart failure, or cancer
  • Inflammation or hormone changes related to aging

Prevention

  • Stay physically active with regular strength and balance exercises
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in protein (e.g., eggs, fish, beans, dairy)
  • Avoid long periods of inactivity or bed rest
  • Manage chronic health conditions properly
  • Get regular check-ups to monitor muscle strength and health

Risk Factors

  • Advancing age
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Poor diet
  • Long hospital stays or immobility
  • Chronic diseases
  • Unintentional weight loss

Treatment

  • Medical evaluation is needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of weakness
  • Exercise programs, especially resistance and balance training, to build and maintain muscle
  • Proper nutrition, including enough calories and protein
  • Vitamin D supplements, if levels are low
  • Management of other health problems that may contribute to muscle loss
  • Regular follow-up with healthcare professionals to track progress and adjust care plans

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