Rhabdomyolysis is a rare condition in which muscle tissue sustains severe damage. This injury causes muscle fibers to break down, releasing their contents into the bloodstream.

Rhabdomyolysis can result in serious complications, including kidney failure and heart issues, making it crucial to recognize its symptoms for timely intervention.

What is Rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis occurs when the skeletal muscles suffer substantial damage, leading to the breakdown of muscle fibers and the release of a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream.

In large amounts, myoglobin can be toxic to the kidneys as they work to filter it from the blood, which can quickly lead to a medical emergency.

Rhabdomyolysis can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Severe physical trauma or injury, such as from a car accident or sports-related incident
• Use of certain drugs or substances, including illicit drugs like cocaine, amphetamines, and heroin, as well as cholesterol-lowering medications like statins
• Genetic muscle conditions, such as muscular dystrophy, which can raise the risk of rhabdomyolysis
• Extreme temperatures, either high or low
• Muscle compression or blood clots that result in tissue death
• Low phosphate levels
• Prolonged and uncontrolled seizures
• Intense physical activities, like marathons, strenuous gym workouts, or extreme gymnastics, particularly when done without adequate preparation
• Extended surgeries that place significant stress on muscles
• Severe dehydration, which hinders myoglobin filtration and worsens damage to the kidneys and muscles

Symptoms of Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis symptoms vary based on the extent of muscle damage. Common signs include:

• Swelling in the affected muscle area
• Muscle weakness that limits movement
• Muscle soreness or pain, especially when touched
• Dark-colored urine, often brown, red, or tea-like in color

In addition to these main symptoms, some individuals may experience:

• Excessive fluid loss from profuse sweating or from the kidneys attempting to clear myoglobin
• Decreased urine output
• Nausea and vomiting as a reaction to muscle injury and electrolyte imbalances
• Confusion or decreased alertness due to kidney damage or severe electrolyte imbalance

To lower the risk of rhabdomyolysis, avoid overexerting yourself with intense or high-risk activities. Always warm up sufficiently before exercise, and avoid pushing your body too hard.

If you experience severe muscle pain or dark-colored urine following intense physical activity or injury, see a doctor promptly. For more health inquiries, consult a doctor using the Ai Care health app, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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