Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more prone to fractures. It occurs when bones lose their ability to rebuild and repair themselves. While often associated with ageing, osteoporosis can affect individuals of any age. Understanding the risk factors and adopting preventive measures is essential for maintaining bone health.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis:
– Age and Gender: Women, especially after menopause, are at a higher risk due to the drop in oestrogen levels – low oestrogen makes one vulnerable to osteopenia and osteoporosis. However, anyone over 50 has a higher risk of getting the disease.
Damage to joints during one’s life can also make one prone to developing this degenerative disease.
– Hormonal Changes: Conditions like overactive thyroid and low testosterone in men can lead to bone loss.
– Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to weakened bones
– Poor Nutrition: Diets lacking in calcium and Vitamin D can accelerate bone loss.
Signs and Symptoms
Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because it typically doesn’t show symptoms until a fracture or break occurs. Common signs include:
– Back pain due to collapsed vertebrae.
– Loss of height or stooped/hunched posture.
– Fractures or breaks from minor falls or even everyday activities.
Diagnosis
Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed using a bone density test (DEXA or DXA scan), which measures bone strength in critical areas like the hip, forearm and spine to determine how much calcium and other minerals are in your bones.
Prevention
Although osteoporosis cannot always be prevented, several steps can be taken to help reduce the risk:
– Healthy Diet: Consuming calcium-rich foods (e.g., dairy, leafy greens) and getting enough Vitamin D from sunlight or supplements is essential for bone health.
– Regular Exercise: Weight-bearing exercises like walking, rebounding, strength training, and balance exercises help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of falls.
– Lifestyle Changes: Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to maintain strong bones.
Treatment
For those diagnosed with osteoporosis, treatment focuses on slowing bone loss and preventing fractures. Common treatments include:
– Medications like bisphosphonates to slow bone breakdown. These are prescribed by your doctor and dosing is simply one tablet a week
– Hormone replacement therapy for post-menopausal women.
– Physical therapy to improve posture and prevent falls.
Call in to speak to our pharmacists who will advise you on the best supplements and preventative measures for you as an individual.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is a manageable condition with early intervention. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, getting regular bone density tests, and seeking appropriate medical treatments, individuals can maintain strong bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
Sadly, statistics show that many elderly people are prone to falling and a fracture can lead to untimely death due to the shock and slow recovery.
