Rhabdomyolysis Prevention

Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which myoglobin (a protein pigment found in muscle fibers) is released into the bloodstream when the muscle fibers begin to break down. If an excessive amount of myoglobin reaches the kidneys, kidney damage can occur. Treatment is typically relegated to hydration or the use of a medication, while prevention involves proper hydration while before, during and after exercise.

Causes and Symptoms

• The cause of rhabdomyolysis can be anything that leads to damage to the skeletal system. This can include assorted trauma, drug overdose, problems associated with excessive exposure to heat, muscle necrosis and heavy physical exertion, among others. Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include abnormally colored urine, malaise, muscle stiffness and tenderness, pain in the joints, and seizures, among others.

Prevention

• Prevention of rhabdomyolysis involves maintaining a proper level of hydration, especially when exercising or engaging in any sort of physical activity that carries the potential of skeletal or muscular trauma. Continuing to stay hydrated after exercise will allow the urine to become diluted enough to properly get rid of myoglobin from the kidneys.

Treatment

• Treatment for rhabdomyolysis is focused on getting the myoglobin out of the system as quickly as possible to avoid the risk of kidney damage. This typically includes rapid hydration, sometimes through the use of an I.V., to quickly force the myoglobin through the kidneys before it can break down and cause damage such as kidney failure.

  In some cases a diuretic may be used. A diuretic is the term for anything that assists in the formation of urine in the kidney. Examples of diuretics include chlorothiazide, metolazone, bumetanide and trimterene.

  In the event that hyperkalemia (excessive potassium that can be caused by rhabdomyolysis) or kidney failure occurs, these conditions need to be treated immediately due to their severity. Treatment for hyperkalemia and kidney failure include dialysis, diuretics, and intravenous glucose, calcium and insulin, among others.