Unexplained loss of muscle mass, known as cachexia, is a complex metabolic condition characterized by the unintended loss of lean muscle tissue and fat. This can occur even with adequate calorie intake and can be very concerning.
Some potential causes for cachexia include:
- Chronic diseases: Cachexia can accompany illnesses like cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis among others. The underlying disease process triggers the body to break down muscle.
- Medications: Certain prescription medications used to treat mental health conditions, seizures, high blood pressure, and diabetes may contribute to muscle wasting over time. Always review medications with your doctor.
- Low testosterone: Dropping testosterone levels that accompany aging, called hypogonadism, can accelerate loss of muscle mass. Testosterone therapy may help counteract this.
- Poor nutrition: Consuming too few calories, inadequate protein, vitamin/mineral deficiencies can lead to cachexia over time. Work with a dietitian to optimize nutrition.
Diagnosing the underlying cause is important to stop and potentially reverse cachexia. At
Optimal Hormone Health Center, we specialize in detecting causes like low
testosterone or poor
nutrition that contribute to unexplained muscle loss. Our expert physicians and dietitians work together to
optimize hormones, diet, and lifestyle to help improve body composition.
We offer cutting-edge
testosterone and hormone testing, personalized treatment plans including
testosterone therapy, customized
meal plans, and one-on-one
nutritional counseling. Our goal is to help patients preserve or regain lost muscle mass through comprehensive treatment.
If you've noticed a decrease in your strength or muscle mass despite adequate calorie intake, I encourage you to schedule a consultation with Optimal Hormone Health Center. We are committed to getting to the root cause with thorough testing, correctly diagnosing conditions causing cachexia, and working alongside you to effectively manage muscle loss.
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