Can rhabdomyolysis be fatal?

Rhabdomyolysis is rapid breakdown of muscle tissue. It can follow unusually intense exercise, crushing injury, heat illness, seizures, prolonged immobility, infection or some medicines. Muscle soreness after exercise is common and does not by itself establish rhabdomyolysis. More concerning features include marked muscle pain or weakness, swelling, reduced urination and urine that looks unusually dark. Blood tests are needed to assess muscle injury, kidney function and salts in the blood.

Stop strenuous exercise and seek same-day medical assessment if symptoms are severe, unusual or accompanied by weakness or dark urine. Do not try to treat suspected rhabdomyolysis by exercising through it. A healthcare team may monitor blood tests, give fluids through a vein, correct chemical disturbances and treat the trigger. Tell them about recent exercise, heat exposure, injuries, seizures, supplements and medicines. Early assessment helps identify complications before they become harder to control.

Go to an emergency department now for very little or no urine, confusion, fainting, severe weakness, chest symptoms, trouble breathing, a racing or irregular heartbeat, rapidly increasing muscle swelling, or severe pain after a crush injury or heat exposure. Call emergency services if you cannot travel safely. Do not wait for urine colour to change if you have significant muscle symptoms.

Ask which tests are needed, whether kidney function and blood salts are affected, how much activity and fluid are appropriate, which medicines or supplements may contribute, and what symptoms require immediate return.