OSTEOPOROSIS: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

OSTEOPOROSIS: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

Together with the muscles, strong bones are essential for enabling free movement of the body, besides providing its shape and structure. Osteoporosis is one of the most common problems in which the bone density deteriorates, resulting in porous, fragile bones which are compressible. Therefore, it puts a person at a greater risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine, wrists and ribs.

Causes and Risk Factors of Osteoporosis Some factors which aggravate the risk of developing osteoporosis are: 

Reduced sex hormones, specifically estrogen in women and androgen in men.

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As age increases, so does the risk of osteoporosis i

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Genetic factors, family history and other inherited conditions such as Marfan syndrome

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Tobacco and alcohol weakens the structural integrity of the bones.

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Lack of nutrients such as calcium, magnesium and Vitamin D also plays a Lack of exercise and being immobile for extended periods of time.

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Hyperparathyroidism, where there is excess production of parathyroid hormone, causing too much calcium to be removed from the bones, thereby weakening them.

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Long term use of medications such as anti-seizure medicines, oral corticosteroids ( heparin, prednisone etc.)

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Women, whites and Asians are more prone to this condition, compared to males and other ethnic groups.

Osteoporosis Symptoms 

Bone loss develops slowly and the symptoms don’t usually manifest themselves, that is until he/she experiences a fracture due to an unrelated incident such as a fall or sometimes even a cough or sneeze.

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Back pain caused due to changes in the vertebrae is often the first sign.

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Pain in the bones or muscles at a particular location, especially lower back or the neck.

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Sudden onset of sharp pains that does not spread to other areas which lingers for a few months.

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A slopping or stooped posture resulting in a loss of height due to spinal fracture

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Fractures at hips or wrists due to a fall can sometimes reveal this condition.

Osteoporosis Treatment The treatment for osteoporosis focuses on slowing down or preventing the development of this disease and aims to maintain a healthy bone mass and bone mineral density. It involves treating and preventing fractures, minimizing the pain and maximizing the person’s ability to carry on his/her daily activities. The treatment measures include:  Osteoporosis Medications or Drugs : Biphosphonates are antiresorptive drugs that slow down bone mass, although they may also increase the risk of jaw bone destruction or cause gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers in the esophagus and acid reflux.  Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Estrogen antagonists like Raloxifene can reduce the risk of spine fractures in post-menopausal women. It is used less than other medications due to concerns about the risk of cancer, blood clots, stroke and heart disease.  Diet: A balanced and nutritious diet with sufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D helps increase bone mass. Include adequate amounts of green leafy vegetables and fish such as salmon or tuna.  Lifestyle changes: These include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption and exercising regularly. All these measures can help in preventing as well as treating osteoporosis.