Sarcopenia is a condition that causes a gradual loss of muscle mass, strength, and function. This is a condition that is most common in the elderly, and it is likely linked to the ageing process. This condition can negatively impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it and can lead to a need for long-term supportive care.
The common symptoms of Sarcopenia are:
Sarcopenia is caused by the loss of muscle mass and strength as people age. This condition can be made worse by long periods of physical inactivity, being obese, having a chronic disease, and reduced hormone levels. Everyone loses muscle mass as they age, but when Sarcopenia is in play, muscle mass is lost very rapidly.
The added risk factors for this condition are:
To diagnose Sarcopenia, your doctor will need to do a full physical examination. They will ask about your symptoms and have you fill out a self-reporting tool called the SARC-F. This stands for Strength, Assistance with walking, Rising from a chair, Climbing stairs, and Falls. The score on this assessment will indicate if further testing needs to be done for Sarcopenia.
Handgrip tests, walking speed analysis, and chair stand tests are all used to diagnose this condition. A short physical performance battery test might also be performed, which requires patients to complete three timed tasks. These tasks are a chair stand, a standing balance test, and a walking speed test.
Imaging tests can also reveal problems with bone density, body fat, and muscle mass. The most common test that is performed to diagnose Sarcopenia is a DEXA test. A bioelectrical impedance analysis might be done in place of a Dexa scan.
Lifestyle changes are the most common treatment for this condition. An improved diet can be a big help in halting the progression of the condition, and it can allow some patients to regain some strength. Physical activity that includes strength training can also be very important in treating this condition. Studies have indicated that hormone therapy might help replace some lost muscle mass and strength, but there are no FDA-approved hormone medications that can be used to treat Sarcopenia.
Prevention of Sarcopenia can be difficult since it is poorly understood and is linked to the ageing process. However, making good food choices and eating enough protein can be key to maintaining your physical well-being as you age. You should also exercise on a regular basis so that you do not lose muscle mass as quickly or suffer from bone density changes. Getting routine physicals as you age can also help you to be diagnosed in the early stages of this condition when treatment is more effective.