Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine and wrist. Osteoporosis is very common, affecting around 200 million women worldwide.
Some key facts about osteoporosis:
- It is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People often don't know they have it until a fracture occurs.
- It is more common in women due to the rapid bone loss that occurs after menopause, however men can also develop osteoporosis.
- Bone is living tissue that is constantly being renewed. Osteoporosis occurs when bone breakdown exceeds bone formation.
- Risk factors include family history, being female, advanced age, low calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and inactivity.
What causes osteoporosis?
- As we age, bone breakdown speeds up while bone formation slows down. More bone is lost than replaced.
- Estrogen helps protect bone. After menopause, estrogen levels drop rapidly leading to accelerated bone loss.
- Inadequate calcium and vitamin D affect bone health. A lifetime of low calcium intake and vitamin D deficiency can make osteoporosis worse.
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol, and inactivity weaken bones. Weight-bearing exercise and strength training build strong bones.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Unfortunately, osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without any signs or symptoms. Most people don't know they have osteoporosis until a
fracture occurs, frequently in the wrist, hip or spine. Some symptoms after a fracture include:
- Sudden, severe back pain (may signal a fractured vertebra)
- Loss of height and stooped posture as vertebrae collapse
- Fractures from minor stresses like bending over or coughing
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density test called a
DXA scan. This test precisely measures bone density in the hip and spine. Based on the results, your doctor can determine your risk of breaking a bone. Osteoporosis is diagnosed when bone density falls more than 2.5 standard deviations below peak bone mass.
What is the treatment for osteoporosis?
The main goals of treating osteoporosis are to reduce your risk of fractures and maintain healthy bone. Treatment options include:
- Weight-bearing exercise - Walking, dancing, tennis, strength training to build bone density
- Calcium and vitamin D - Important for bone health. Supplements may be needed.
- Medication - Bisphosphonates like alendronate (Fosamax) help slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk.
- Hormone therapy - Estrogen therapy can be used short-term to treat menopause symptoms and prevent bone loss.
- Healthy lifestyle - No smoking, limited alcohol and caffeine, fall prevention strategies.
At
Renew Medical Clinic, we specialize in
bioidentical hormone therapy to help treat osteoporosis and other age-related conditions. Our customized treatments can help optimize hormone levels, reducing menopause symptoms and promoting strong bone health. Contact us today to learn more about our osteoporosis solutions!