Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where skeletal muscles rapidly fail, often caused by physical trauma, medication, or extreme physical exertion. Symptoms include decreased kidney function, muscle weakness, and shock. Treatment involves restoring blood circulation and electrolyte balance. Advanced cases may require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which skeletal muscles begin to fail at a rapid rate. Deterioration can be triggered by a number of different causes, including physical trauma and certain medications. If left unchecked, this condition can lead to acute kidney failure and possibly death.
There are several causes for the development of rhabdomyolysis. One has to do with the sudden compression of the muscles. This type of compression can occur due to a serious automobile accident in which the individual is trapped inside the vehicle or under rubble or debris from an earthquake, or due to prolonged periods of physical abuse in which the individual is not is able to move.
Another common cause of rhabdomyolysis is disruption of blood flow to the muscles. The blockage may be due to the presence of some type of blood clot formation. There is also some chance of this condition occurring if an artery is blocked during surgery.
It is also possible to develop rhabdomyolysis as a result of prolonged and extreme physical exertion, without adequate hydration. People who are experiencing alcohol withdrawal or have seizures are also at increased risk for this condition. Exposure to significant amounts of electricity, whether by contact with lightning strikes or as a result of exposure to electroshock weapons such as Tasers®, is also more likely to develop this type of muscle wasting.
Prescription and illegal drugs can also contribute to the development of this condition. Statins, antipsychotic drugs, and various types of neuromuscular blocking agents increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis. The use of heroin, ecstasy and cocaine also increases the risk. Even some drugs derived from snake venom can trigger a certain amount of skeletal muscle deterioration.
In terms of rhabdomyolysis symptoms, sufferers are likely to experience a decreased level of kidney function, loss of muscle strength and, in some cases, shock. The shock is sometimes due to the fact that this condition results in lower levels of several important nutrients in the body, especially potassium and calcium. Some people report feeling a certain amount of numbness in their extremities; this is especially true for people who develop the condition after being trapped in rubble or in a wrecked vehicle for an extended period of time.
Treatment of rhabdomyolysis often focuses on restoring proper blood circulation, preserving kidney function, and coping with any shock that has developed. The use of intravenous fluids is often recommended, especially for victims who have been crushed in some type of accident or disaster. The introduction of fluid can help prevent the development of blockages that limit blood flow to the skeletal muscles and also serve to provide the individual with the nutrients needed to maintain a proper balance of electrolytes and overall metabolism. If the condition is addressed while still in its early stages, there is an excellent chance of recovery. However, advanced situations may require an extended period of dialysis and possibly a kidney transplant to prevent death.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
