What are the common causes of elevated muscle enzymes?

Apr 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Creatine kinase refers to muscle enzymes. Elevated creatine kinase levels may result from extensive physical exercise within a short period, leading to muscle fiber damage or hyperplasia. It could also be caused by hypothyroidism, in which insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones leads to myocardial lesions and increased creatine kinase. Additionally, acute viral infection affecting the heart may weaken cardiac blood-pumping function and cause abnormal metabolism, resulting in elevated creatine kinase levels.

Generally, muscle enzymes refer to creatine kinase. Elevated creatine kinase levels may result from physiological factors or pathological conditions such as hypothyroidism and acute viral myocarditis. The details are as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

Creatine kinase is present in skeletal muscles. After intense physical exercise within a short period, muscle fibers may become damaged or proliferate, leading to elevated creatine kinase levels. This condition usually improves with adequate rest.

2. Pathological Factors

2.1 Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism leads to insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones, which can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate). In severe cases, it may induce myocardial lesions resulting in increased creatine kinase levels. It is recommended to take levothyroxine sodium tablets or thyroid tablets under medical supervision to promote thyroid hormone secretion and improve symptoms.

2.2 Acute Viral Myocarditis

After acute viral infection of the myocardium, cardiac blood-pumping function weakens, immunity decreases, and metabolic abnormalities occur, all of which can lead to elevated creatine kinase levels. It is recommended to take medications such as coenzyme Q10 capsules, adenosine triphosphate tablets, and vitamin B12 tablets under medical guidance to nourish the myocardium and alleviate symptoms.

In addition, elevated creatine kinase may also be caused by myocardial infarction. If other discomfort symptoms are present, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.