Unexplained loss of muscle mass - Hormone Harmony Clinic

What is unexplained loss of muscle mass?

Loss of muscle mass, medically known as muscle atrophy, can sometimes occur without an obvious cause. Known as idiopathic muscle atrophy, this unexplained condition can happen at any age and lead to weakness, fatigue, and disability if not properly diagnosed and treated.

Some potential causes of idiopathic muscle atrophy include:

• Motor neuron diseases: Diseases that damage motor neurons, the nerve cells that control muscle movement, can cause rapid loss of muscle mass. Examples are amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy.
• Inflammatory myopathies: Diseases causing muscle inflammation can slowly break down muscle over time. These include polymyositis and dermatomyositis.
• Endocrine disorders: Problems with glands that secrete hormones can affect muscle maintenance. These include low testosterone, low growth hormone, and thyroid abnormalities.
• Mitochondrial myopathies: Defects in the energy factories within muscle cells can cause progressive muscle weakness.
• Muscle ion channelopathies: Abnormalities in channels that transport ions in and out of muscles can interfere with muscle function.

If you experience progressive muscle wasting and weakness without a known cause, it's important to see a neurologist or muscle disease specialist (neuromuscular specialist). They can run tests such as:

• Blood tests
• Genetic testing
• Electromyography
• Muscle biopsy

This allows them to categorize the condition as neural or muscular in origin and guide appropriate treatment to stop or slow further loss of muscle.

At Hormone Harmony Clinic, we have extensive experience diagnosing and treating muscle loss conditions. Our hormone optimization therapies can help improve strength and function. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our neuromuscular specialists.*

While idiopathic muscle atrophy can be frightening, an accurate diagnosis and promptly starting treatment can greatly improve outcomes. Don't ignore unexplained muscle wasting - schedule an evaluation with a neuromuscular specialist right away. Support groups can also provide coping strategies for living with muscle loss conditions. With proper medical care, most patients can maintain independence and quality of life.