Rhabdomyolysis: The muscle-damaging medical condition

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious medical condition that can lead to permanent disability or even death. It's caused by the breakdown of muscle tissue, which releases harmful substances into the bloodstream.

What causes rhabdomyolysis?

There are many different causes of rhabdomyolysis, including:

• Trauma, such as a car accident or a fall
• Overexertion, such as running a marathon or lifting heavy weights
• Certain medications, such as statins and niacin
• Alcohol abuse
• Drug use
• Genetic disorders

What are the symptoms of rhabdomyolysis?

The symptoms of rhabdomyolysis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Muscle pain and weakness
• Swelling and tenderness of the muscles
• Dark urine
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Coma

How is rhabdomyolysis diagnosed?

Rhabdomyolysis is diagnosed with a blood test that measures the levels of muscle enzymes in the blood. A muscle biopsy may also be done to confirm the diagnosis.

How is rhabdomyolysis treated?

The treatment for rhabdomyolysis depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, treatment may involve rest, fluids, and pain medication. In more severe cases, treatment may involve hospitalization and intravenous fluids. In some cases, dialysis may be necessary to remove harmful substances from the blood.

What is the prognosis for rhabdomyolysis?

The prognosis for rhabdomyolysis depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In most cases, people with rhabdomyolysis recover completely. However, in some cases, rhabdomyolysis can lead to permanent disability or even death.

How can rhabdomyolysis be prevented?

There are no surefire ways to prevent rhabdomyolysis, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

• Staying hydrated
• Warming up before exercising
• Cooling down after exercising
• Avoiding overexertion
• Talking to your doctor before taking any new medications
• Avoiding alcohol abuse
• Avoiding drug use

If you experience any of the symptoms of rhabdomyolysis, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.