How to Avoid Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is a medical condition in which your muscle membranes and fibers break down. This causes potassium and myoglobin to enter your bloodstream. Myoglobin becomes toxic in your kidneys and results in damage to the kidney cells. The kidneys are then unable to adequately filter your bodily wastes. If untreated or treated too late, rhabdomyolysis can cause permanent kidney damage, kidney failure and possibly heart failure due to elevated potassium levels. The best way to ensure minimal damage from rhabdomyolysis is to get medical help immediately, or to prevent the condition from occurring.

Instructions

• 1

  Hydrate your body adequately, especially after exercise. Serious athletes are at risk of dehydration and possibly rhabdomyolysis. Drinking large amounts of water after exercising can help your kidneys flush out the myoglobin.

• 2

  Do not exercise if you have recently had an infection or a viral illness. This will increase your risk of developing rhabdomyolysis. Your muscles may already be inflamed and more prone to deterioration caused by exercise.

• 3

  Acclimate yourself to your exercise program. If you are already at a high fitness level, you are less likely to develop rhabdomyolysis, according to the Sports Injury Bulletin. It's not a good idea to suddenly start an aggressive fitness program after being inactive for awhile.

• 4

  Seek rehabilitation assistance if you are an alcoholic or a drug addict. People with these conditions are more susceptible to rhabdomyolysis. Addicts and alcoholics who sleep for a long period of time in one position can develop rhabdomyolysis due to the extended pressure on the muscles.

• 5

  Ask your doctor whether any medications you are taking could put you at risk for rhabdomyolysis. Occasionally, statins may break down muscle cells. This is rare; however, if you take statins and you experience muscle weakness or aching, discontinue your medication and see your doctor.

• 6

  Obtain medical help as soon as possible if you suspect you have rhabdomyolysis. If your condition is treated early enough, you may be able to avoid chronic kidney damage or kidney failure. Learn to recognize the symptoms of rhabdomyolysis so you can seek medical treatment. Possible signs include weakness, muscle stiffness, aching or tenderness, unusual urine color (such as dark or red), fatigue, joint pain, weight gain and seizures.