Pulkit Samrat reveals malaria cost him ‘2.5 kg muscle, fair bit of strength’

Pulkit Samrat recently disclosed that malaria had caused him to lose 2.5 kg of muscle mass and a significant amount of strength. The mosquito-borne infection impacted him more than he anticipated. According to Dr Manjusha Agarwal, a consultant in internal medicine at Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai, malaria can lead to high fever, chills, sweating, weakness, and fatigue.

When someone loses 2.5 kg of muscle, it indicates a reduction in lean muscle mass rather than a decrease in total body weight. Dr Amit Saraf, director of internal medicine at Jupiter Hospital Thane, explained that people often eat less during recovery, leading to a drop in weight, which may include muscle loss. However, it is crucial to remember that not all weight loss is due to muscle.

Recovery from malaria can be gradual, with fatigue potentially lasting for days or weeks. Dr Saraf noted that anaemia, dehydration, low-calorie intake, and muscle loss can all contribute to weakness. Even after the fever subsides, a person may feel physically drained due to malaria's stress on the body. Dr Agarwal emphasized that muscle loss can affect strength, stamina, balance, and the ability to perform daily activities.

Recovery should prioritize adequate protein and calorie intake, hydration, sufficient sleep, and a gradual return to physical activity. Starting with walking, mobility exercises, and light resistance training is recommended over immediately resuming heavy workouts. Nutrition, hydration, and gradual physical activity are key components of the recovery process.

Persistent weakness, breathlessness, dizziness, poor appetite, or difficulty performing routine activities should prompt a person to seek medical advice and avoid pushing through severe fatigue.