Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of bone tissue and bone structure. This leads to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine and wrist.
Some key facts about osteoporosis:
- It is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms
- It affects both men and women, but women are 4 times more likely to develop it due to changes in hormone levels during menopause
- Major risk factors include family history, low calcium intake, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and lack of exercise
What causes osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis occurs when the body loses too much bone or makes too little bone. As bones become less dense, they weaken and are more likely to fracture. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being renewed through a cycle where old bone is removed and new bone is created to replace it.
After age 30, more bone tends to be removed than replaced. For some people, this imbalance occurs faster leading to weakened bones and osteoporosis.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a
bone mineral density (BMD) test. This test precisely measures bone density in various sites of the body, usually the hip and spine. BMD tests can:
- Diagnose osteoporosis if bone density falls more than 2.5 standard deviations below young normal levels
- Assess fracture risk
- Monitor changes in bone density over time
If osteoporosis is diagnosed early,
medications can be prescribed to strengthen bones and help prevent debilitating fractures. Lifestyle changes like increased calcium and vitamin D intake and weight-bearing exercise can also slow bone loss.
At Hormone Harmony, we offer advanced osteoporosis treatment including
bone-building medications and
customized hormone therapy. Our compassionate doctors create personalized treatment plans to stop bone loss, increase bone density, and improve vitality. Contact us today for a consultation!
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Unfortunately, osteoporosis does not cause symptoms until a fracture occurs. Some fractures that may indicate osteoporosis include:
- Spine fractures - can cause back pain, height loss, or stooped posture
- Hip fractures - most serious type, often requires surgery
- Wrist fractures - typically caused by falling forward onto an outstretched hand
Who is at risk for developing osteoporosis?
Those with a higher risk of osteoporosis include:
- Women over age 50 due to postmenopausal hormone changes
- Those with a family history of osteoporosis
- People with low body weight/small frames
- Those who smoke cigarettes
- Anyone with low calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, or an eating disorder
- Individuals who are physically inactive
- People taking certain medications like corticosteroids or proton pump inhibitors
The key to preventing painful fractures is early detection and treatment. Get tested if you have any risk factors and maintain lifelong bone-healthy habits like weight-bearing exercise, not smoking, and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake. With vigilance, osteoporosis does not have to result in life-altering injuries.