What are the common causes of muscle weakness and how can it be treated?

Muscle weakness can be caused by a wide variety of health conditions, including but not limited to certain medications, long-term heavy alcohol use, and nerve or muscle problems. The common causes of muscle weakness vary depending on whether the weakness affects muscles all over the body versus only part of the body (for example, weakness may only affect the legs or one leg). Also, the common causes of muscle weakness differ depending on a person's age.

Some Common Causes of Muscle Weakness, Depending on Certain Factors

1. Age: Although rare, some genetic conditions (such as muscular dystrophy) can cause muscle weakness that develops during childhood. In contrast, some causes of muscle weakness (including stroke, carpal tunnel syndrome, or muscle problems caused by long-term heavy alcohol use) are more common among adults.
2. How Many Muscles Are Affected: If only one part of the body is affected by muscle weakness (for example, one leg), a common cause of this type of weakness is a problem affecting the nerve that controls movement to that part of the body. On the other hand, conditions affecting the whole body (such as a thyroid problem, long-term heavy alcohol use, or a medication side effect) tend to cause muscle weakness all over the body.
3. Some Medications: Long-term, frequent use of steroid pills can cause muscle weakness. Less commonly, a particular type of medicine to lower cholesterol can cause muscle weakness in certain individuals.

If you are experiencing muscle weakness, a healthcare provider can provide a personalized medical assessment of your muscle weakness symptoms in order to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment plan.