What causes general weakness and leg weakness when walking, and what should be done about it?
Generally, feeling weak all over and experiencing leg weakness while walking may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as anemia or osteoporosis. Appropriate treatment should be based on the specific cause. The details are as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
If a patient is excessively hungry or suffers from sleep deprivation, it may lead to generalized weakness and leg weakness when walking. It is recommended that the patient get adequate rest and consume foods rich in protein and vitamins appropriately. These measures usually effectively relieve the symptoms, and no special treatment is required.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Anemia
Anemia refers to a clinical syndrome characterized by a reduction in peripheral blood red cell volume below the lower limit of the normal range, resulting in inadequate oxygen supply to tissues and organs. Patients commonly experience symptoms such as fatigue, headache, dizziness, lethargy, fainting, and insomnia. Fatigue may lead to leg weakness during walking. It is recommended that patients take medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets or ferrous succinate granules as directed by a physician.
2. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone microstructure, leading to increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures. Main symptoms include fatigue, pain in the lower back, limbs, or extremities, which may contribute to the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended that patients take medications such as oyster calcium carbonate tablets or calcium gluconate tablets as prescribed. Additionally, moderate sun exposure and appropriate physical activity are advised in daily life.
Besides the above, other possible causes include hypothyroidism, myocardial infarction, heart failure, thrombocytopenic purpura, myasthenia gravis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when discomfort occurs to avoid delays in treatment. A light diet and sufficient rest are also recommended in daily life.