Weakness is a symptom related to physical weakness or lack of energy. Moving the body becomes difficult or impossible due to lack of energy, muscle twitching or cramps. Weakness can occur in any part of the body. It is a common symptom of many different acute and chronic health conditions. Weakness can also develop as a side effect of certain medications. Some forms of weakness may pass on their own after a short rest, while others require treatment of the underlying illness.
Causes of weakness
– Fatigue: It is often accompanied by a feeling of weakness, usually after physical activity.
– Muscle cramps: Muscle cramps cause pain and lead to weakness in the arms and legs. There are various possible causes of these symptoms, such as electrolyte imbalances in the blood, injuries, or conditions like multiple sclerosis.
-Fever: High body temperature caused by infections is accompanied by sweating, chills, muscle pain, and a general feeling of weakness.
-Congenital myopathies: These primarily affect the structure and metabolism of skeletal muscles. They typically manifest as muscle weakness that hinders everyday activities. Some myopathies are genetic and can be passed from parent to child, while others occur later in life and may be due to autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, or other causes.
-Electrolyte imbalance occurs when certain mineral levels in the blood, such as potassium, magnesium, and sodium, become too high or too low. Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance vary depending on the severity and type of electrolyte, including weakness and muscle cramps.
-Malignant tumors: Loss of skeletal muscle and weakness can be caused by certain malignancies, as well as treatments for these conditions (chemotherapy, radiation therapy).
-Vitamin B12 deficiency in diet: It can lead to disruptions in the nervous system and circulation. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause symptoms such as fatigue and weakness, loss of appetite, and balance problems.
-Side effects of muscle disease medications: Drug-induced myopathies manifest as fatigue, muscle pain, and weakness.
-Cardiovascular diseases: Heart attacks and strokes can manifest weakness on one or both sides of the body, along with other symptoms. The consequences of a stroke can include reduced mobility of body parts and their weakness.
-Muscular dystrophy: Muscular dystrophies are a group of muscle diseases caused by genetic mutations. Over time, muscle weakness reduces mobility, making daily tasks more challenging.
-Nerve compression: Cervical radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a “pinched nerve,” occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated where it branches from the spinal cord. This can cause pain that radiates to the shoulder and/or arm, as well as muscle weakness and numbness.
-Poisoning: Food poisoning, often accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, can lead to a general sense of weakness and muscle weakness.
-Poliomyelitis: When poliovirus infects the body, it affects nerve cells – motor neurons that transmit electrical impulses between the brain and muscles. This leads to weakness of the muscles of the arms and legs. Poliovirus specifically affects the motor neurons of the spinal cord.
-Thyrotoxicosis: Thyrotoxic myopathy is a neuromuscular disorder that can accompany hyperthyroidism (Grave’s disease), caused by excessive production of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. Symptoms may include muscle weakness and myalgia (muscle sensitivity).
-Trauma: The way a person responds to trauma depends on the type and severity of the traumatic event. Various types of injuries, such as limb and head injuries, lead to a general sense of weakness and muscle weakness.
-Natural aging: Aging can also cause sarcopenia, a gradual loss of muscle tissue and strength. This overall loss of muscle strength can lead to weakness or increasing fatigue.
-Medication side effects: Certain medications can cause unwanted effects such as weakness and fatigue. Medications that can cause weakness include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, blood pressure control medications, statins for controlling high cholesterol levels, and chemotherapy drugs.
Symptoms of weakness
Symptoms of weakness can vary depending on the cause and may occur in a specific part of the body or throughout the entire body.
Isolated weakness
If weakness occurs in a specific part of the body, a person will not be able to effectively move that body part. Other symptoms that may occur include:
- delayed or slow movement
- uncontrollable trembling or shaking
- muscle twitches
- muscle cramps
- weakness of the whole body
Some people who experience full-body weakness may experience symptoms such as:
- fever
- flu-like symptoms
- pain in the affected area
Životno ugrožavajući simptomi
Life-threatening symptoms
In rare cases, weakness can be a sign of a stroke or heart attack.
It is important to seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms are present:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking
- Changes in vision
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of balance
Diagnosis of weakness
Doctor’s examination: There are many treatment options for weakness depending on its underlying cause. The doctor will assess all symptoms, ask about their intensity, duration, and whether the patient has experienced them before.
Urine and blood tests: The doctor may request urine and blood samples for laboratory analysis to detect potential infections or medical conditions that may contribute to weakness.
Imaging tests (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT scan): If weakness and pain occur in a specific part of the body, the doctor may include imaging techniques in further diagnostics. Brain scans and electrocardiograms may be performed if a stroke or heart attack is suspected. These tests are also used to evaluate the causes of bone, nerve, or muscle damage in the affected area.
Muscle strength testing: The doctor will manually test and assess muscle strength by applying pressure in specific directions while the patient resists. Other tests commonly conducted during evaluation measure flexibility, gait (how someone walks or runs), range of motion (how much a body part can move), balance, coordination, and mobility. These initial results help the doctor monitor progress during rehabilitation. Electromyography (EMG) may be used to test nerve activity in the muscles.
Options for treating weaknesses
Acute weakness due to physical exhaustion or lack of sleep will disappear after rest and quality sleep. In some cases, weakness may disappear after treatment of an acute illness. For example, weakness resulting from a bacterial infection should improve after antibiotic therapy. However, if weakness is a symptom of an underlying condition, it is important to treat the cause.
Some chronic conditions will require long-term management. For instance, individuals living with multiple sclerosis will receive ongoing physical therapy, psychological support, and medication for symptom control. Treatment following injuries also involves medication and physical therapy, which can effectively address musculoskeletal weakness. Therapists may recommend exercises to alleviate weakness on one side of the body and assist with the restoration of motor skills (as in the case of stroke).
Surgery: Treatment for certain conditions such as herniated discs or hyperthyroidism may involve surgical intervention.
Prevention of weakness
Since weakness as a symptom is associated with various conditions, the most effective way to prevent its occurrence is to treat the underlying cause(s).
Other possible preventive measures include:
- Regular physical activity
- Balanced nutrition
- Hydration
- Treatment of basic sleep disorders
- Taking medications and substances such as iron, folate, or vitamin B12
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake
- Sufficient rest and sleep
- Stress management techniques
- Consult a doctor for additional prevention measures based on your specific condition
Long-term prognosis
Some causes of weakness are part of normal life. For example, weakness due to a common cold should resolve within a few days with rest. If weakness stems from a more serious condition, early and regular diagnosis of the underlying cause and treatment can help you recover faster or manage the chronic illness effectively. Staying well-hydrated, getting adequate rest, and engaging in regular exercise can aid in recovering from weakness and preventing its recurrence.
Self-help for weakness
To aid in your recovery from weakness, in addition to following prescribed treatments (if necessary), it’s important to:
- Rest
- Hydrate
- Take recommended vitamin and mineral supplements (such as B12, iron, magnesium) as advised by your doctor.
- Use assistive devices for mobility within your home if needed.
- Perform exercises recommended by your doctor.
- Gradually increase the range of motion and activities. Never force yourself if you feel pain.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and cigarettes.
When should I see a doctor if I feel weak?
Individuals experiencing persistent or frequent episodes of weakness should visit a doctor to determine the underlying cause. It is also important to consult a doctor for weakness caused by injuries such as fractures or wounds, as well as for weakness associated with chronic or autoimmune conditions that significantly impact quality of life.
When to see a doctor urgently due to a feeling of weakness?
A person should seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of weakness that occur along with signs of a heart or brain attack (chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, disorientation, loss of balance).
Weakness is a symptom that can be resolved on its own due to fatigue, a common cold, or with the use of medications for a mild bacterial infection. However, weakness can also be a symptom of many diseases, often complex to treat. Visit a doctor if you experience localized muscle weakness or general weakness throughout the body. Treating the potential underlying cause of weakness can lead to overall improvement in symptoms and a better quality of life.
