The Causes and Treatment of Generalized Weakness in Seniors (2024)

FAQs

What is the treatment of Generalised weakness? ›

Treatment. There is no specific treatment for generalized weakness. The only way to fix the weakness is to treat the underlying cause. For example, carbon monoxide poisoning can only be treated by moving the patient out of the environment where the carbon monoxide is in the air.

Weakness can also occur due to physical illnesses or toxic disorders. Long-term (chronic) conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or an underactive thyroid, can cause weakness. Short-term (acute) conditions, such as a pinched nerve or urinary tract infection, can also cause weakness.

Weakness that progresses steadily over hours to days may be caused by acute or subacute disorders (eg, spinal cord compression, transverse myelitis, spinal cord ischemia or hemorrhage, Guillain-Barré syndrome, sometimes muscle wasting caused by a critical illness, rhabdomyolysis, botulism, organophosphate poisoning).

Keep moving — Engage in regular exercise, including resistance training, to maintain muscle and strength. 2. Remember protein — Eat good sources of protein from lean meats, eggs and beans. Aim for 25-30 grams of protein at every meal.

Weight training.

Resistance exercise like weight training is one of the best ways of reversing the loss of muscle mass as you age. It benefits both men and women. Both groups typically lose muscle mass because levels of testosterone or estrogen go down as you age.

Drinking plenty of fluids, getting adequate rest, and exercising regularly can help you recover from weakness and also prevent it.

Muscle weakness is commonly due to lack of exercise, ageing, muscle injury or pregnancy. It can also occur with long-term conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. There are many other possible causes, which include stroke, multiple sclerosis, and depression.

Does weakness go away on its own? ›

You may feel weak and tired after you have done too much activity, such as taking an extra-long hike. This is not a serious problem. It often goes away on its own. Feeling weak can also be caused by medical conditions like thyroid problems, depression, or a virus.

Generalized weakness can be a presenting chief complaint that requires an extensive evaluation to elicit the cause, or may be associated with other geriatric syndromes such as failure to thrive, functional decline, sarcopenia, frailty, and falls.

Definition. Generalized weakness or decreased strength of the muscles, affecting both distal and proximal musculature. [ from HPO]

Muscle strength testing is an important component of the physical exam that can reveal information about neurologic deficits. It is used to evaluate weakness and can be effective in differentiating true weakness from imbalance or poor endurance.

Asthenia refers to generalized physical weakness and/or a lack of energy and strength. It is not a disease, but rather, is a common sign of several acute and chronic medical conditions. Asthenia can also develop as a side effect of medications.

Hemiparesis treatment may include medical and nonmedical techniques: Electrical stimulation. As part of this method, small electrical pads are placed on the weak muscles of the side that has hemiparesis. An electrical charge is sent to the body that helps the muscles contract.