Osteoporosis, which is defined as having porous bones, makes bones weak and brittle to the point where even minor injuries or mild stresses, like bending over, can result in fractures.
Low levels of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals in the bones typically cause bones to weaken and result in low bone density.
Fractures of the spine, hip, or wrist are common complications of osteoporosis.
Most commonly affects women, but men can be affected as well.
What Keeps Bones Healthy?
Regular physical activity, adequate calcium intake, as well as adequate vitamin D intake.
Symptoms:
Generalized body pains, particularly back pain
Fragility fractures: Fractures occur as a result of minor trauma or stress, such as sudden bending or minor trauma.
Risk Factors:
Sex: Women are about twice as likely as men to suffer osteoporotic fractures. The risk of bone loss in women approaching menopause (45 years). Men over the age of 75 are at a higher risk.
Age: The older you get, the more likely you are to develop osteoporosis. As we age, our bones become weaker.
Family history: Osteoporosis runs in families. A parent or sibling with osteoporosis increases the risk, particularly if there is a family history of fractures.
Frame size: Men and women who are extremely thin or have small body frames are at a higher risk because they may have less bone mass to draw from as they age.
Corticosteroid medications: Long-term use of steroids such as prednisone, cortisone, prednisolone, and dexamethasone are harmful to bone. Chronic conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis are commonly treated.
Low calcium intake: A lifelong lack of calcium contributes significantly to the development of osteoporosis. Sedentary lifestyle: Bone health begins in childhood. Children who are physically active and consume adequate amounts of calcium-containing foods have the highest bone density. Exercise is important throughout life, but it can improve bone density at any age.
Excess soda consumption: Although the link between caffeinated sodas and osteoporosis is unclear, caffeine may interfere with calcium absorption and its diuretic effect may increase mineral loss. Furthermore, the phosphoric acid in soda may contribute to bone loss by altering the blood’s acid balance.
Chronic alcoholism: Alcoholism is one of the leading risk factors for osteoporosis in men. Excessive alcohol consumption inhibits bone formation and interferes with the body’s ability to absorb calcium.
Depression. People who suffer from severe depression have a higher rate of bone loss.
Complications
Fractures are the most common and serious osteoporosis complication.
It frequently occurs in the spine or hip bones, which directly support your weight.
Falls frequently result in hip fractures and wrist fractures.
Spine compression fractures can be terribly painful and necessitate a longer recovery. If there are several such fractures, the person may lose several inches of height and develop a stooped posture.
Diagnosis:
A physical examination will be performed to look for osteoporotic fractures.
Blood tests for calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels; X-ray, CT scan, and MRI to rule out fractures and nerve injuries
BMD scans are used to accurately track changes in the density of bones in the spine, hip, and wrist over time.
Treatment:
Your doctor will prescribe medications to increase your bone mineral density and thus reduce your risk of osteoporosis.
Fractures caused by osteoporosis necessitate immediate and definitive treatment, depending on the site of the fracture.
Make dietary changes to increase your bone mineral content.
Prevention
Exercise regularly by walking, running, skipping rope, or jogging.
Supplementation with calcium and vitamin D3
dietary adjustments
Avoid smoking because it can lower oestrogen levels and cause bone loss.
Drink alcohol in moderation.
Caffeine is extremely harmful and should be avoided.
Consider hormone therapy.