Osteoporosis is Latin for ‘porous bones.’ It is a common condition that causes bones to become thin, weak, and brittle.
Any minor falls or stresses, such as bending or even sneezing, could cause a fracture when you have osteoporosis. Most of these fractures occur in the wrist, hip, or spine and can cause chronic pain, loss of movement, and disability.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Bones are constantly being renewed as your body removes old cells and replaces them with new ones. This process is called bone remodeling.
After the age of 30, the renewal of bones slows down. This means your body removes old bones more quickly than they can be replaced. As a result, bones lose their structure and become thinner and weaker.
Who Is at Risk of Osteoporosis?
There are a variety of risk factors for osteoporosis, some of which you can control, while others you cannot. Examples include:
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Certain medications such as steroids, treatments for breast cancer, and medications for treating seizures
- Sedentary lifestyle carries a higher risk
- Poor nutrition and not getting enough calcium or vitamin D
- Eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia
- Smoking increases the risk of fractures
- Alcohol consumption of two or more drinks a day increases the risk
- Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease, cancer, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple myeloma, and rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoporosis is more common in women over 50, particularly in non-Hispanic and Asian women. The production of estrogen, a hormone that protects against excessive bone loss, slows down in postmenopausal women, resulting in rapid bone loss.
Men are prone to osteoporosis at a slower rate as they do not experience a sudden drop in hormone levels. The decrease in bone mass is also slower for men.
Osteoporosis vs. Osteopenia
Osteopenia is a condition where the bone mass is low but not low enough to be osteoporosis. Osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
While there are no visible symptoms in the early stages of the condition, you may notice the following symptoms once the condition has weakened your bones:
- Tiny cracks in bones or stress fractures
- Loss of height
- Stooped posture
- Back pain
How is Osteoporosis Treated?
If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor can prescribe a range of treatment options, including medication and making lifestyle and dietary changes. Treatment can include taking vitamin and mineral supplements like calcium and vitamin D and exercises such as weight-bearing, resistance, and balance exercises.
Osteoporosis Prevention
Some ways to prevent osteoporosis are to reduce the risk factors that contribute to the condition, such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
Weight-bearing exercises, walking, jogging, aerobics, and other exercises make your muscles work against gravity and help to strengthen your bones. You must also get your recommended daily amount of calcium and vitamin D to maintain the health of your bones. Your doctor may suggest you take daily vitamin supplements.
Osteoporosis is a serious condition, and fractures and falls can be life-threatening. It’s essential to call your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of osteoporosis. For vitamins, supplements, and other essentials, visit Simply Medical.