Html code here! Replace this with any non empty raw html code and that's it.

Surprising Causes of Muscle Weakness – and What You Can Do About It

Date:

Share this article:

Del denne artikel:

Muscle weakness can affect anyone — and often, it sneaks up over time.

What feels like ordinary fatigue might actually be a sign of something more serious.

Here are several possible reasons your muscles might be losing strength — and what you can do about it.

Aging’s quiet impact

Photo: Shutterstock.com

As we age, it’s natural to lose muscle mass.

This process is called sarcopenia, and even though you might not notice it until your 60s or 70s, it’s one of the most common causes of muscle weakness.

Reduced physical activity and other health conditions can make it worse.

Medications might be the culprit

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Many commonly used medications can weaken your muscles. Corticosteroids and statins, used to lower cholesterol, are prime examples.

If you’re feeling weaker and can’t figure out why, talk to your doctor or pharmacist — it might be a side effect.

Even a cold can knock you down

Photo: Shutterstock.com

A bad cold or flu can leave your body feeling drained and your muscles weak for days.

In rare cases, viruses can even infect the muscles themselves — though that’s not common if you’re otherwise healthy.

COVID-19

Photo: Shutterstock.com

COVID-19 doesn’t just affect the lungs. Being bedridden for days or weeks due to a serious case can rapidly reduce muscle strength.

The good news is with targeted physical activity and rehab, you can regain your strength over time.

Injury from overuse or strain

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Lifting something too heavy or repeating the same motion too often can lead to muscle strain — or even a tear.

For mild cases, the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can speed up recovery. If it worsens, see a doctor.

When your immune system turns on you

Foto: Shutterstock.com

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a serious condition where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, disrupting communication between your brain and muscles.

This can cause muscle weakness in one or more limbs.

A stroke’s sudden signal

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Sudden muscle weakness can be an early sign of a stroke.

It usually affects one side of the body and may be accompanied by dizziness, vision changes, speech problems, or confusion.

It’s a medical emergency — call 911 immediately.

Hidden health issues

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Various other conditions — like thyroid disorders, sleep problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, heart failure, or diabetes — can all lead to muscle weakness.

If you feel like you’re losing strength and can’t explain it, consult a doctor.

Pregnancy

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Fatigue is common during pregnancy, but muscle weakness isn’t — unless you have an underlying condition like myasthenia gravis.

If you’re pregnant and experiencing unexplained weakness, seek medical advice to rule out rare but serious issues like Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Your doctor is your best resource

Photo: Shutterstock.com

If everyday activities suddenly become difficult due to weakness, it’s time to see your doctor.

They can examine you, ask questions, and run tests to identify the root cause — and distinguish between muscle issues and other problems like pain or balance.

This article is based on information from WebMD.

Other articles

Is Gluten Actually Bad for You? Here’s What Happens When You Cut It Out

Millions have jumped on the gluten-free bandwagon, but do you really know what happens to your body when...

Do You Experience These Symptoms in the Morning? Then You Should Get Checked for Diabetes

Many people have no idea they’re living with type 2 diabetes until the disease has already progressed.But...

Too Busy to Stay Healthy? These Are the Everyday Habits People Keep Skipping

A hectic lifestyle may be costing your health more than you think. From missed eye exams to forgotten...

Snap, Crackle, Pop! Here’s What Your Joints Are Trying to Tell You

If your knees sound like a bowl of cereal, you’re not alone. But what does it actually mean?...

Is Gluten Actually Bad for You? Here’s What Happens When You Cut It Out

Millions have jumped on the gluten-free bandwagon, but do you really know what happens to your body when...

Do You Experience These Symptoms in the Morning? Then You Should Get Checked for Diabetes

Many people have no idea they’re living with type 2 diabetes until the disease has already progressed.But...

Too Busy to Stay Healthy? These Are the Everyday Habits People Keep Skipping

A hectic lifestyle may be costing your health more than you think. From missed eye exams to forgotten...