What are the symptoms of osteoporosis? What causes osteoporosis? How can I prevent osteoporosis?

Understanding Osteoporosis: An Overview

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, leading to a weakening of the bone structure. This can significantly increase the risk of fractures, even from minor falls or stresses. Osteoporosis is often called a “silent” disease because it typically does not have any noticeable symptoms until a bone is broken.

Who is at Risk for Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis can affect individuals of all races and ethnic groups, but certain factors can increase the risk:

• Sex: Women have a higher risk than men, as they tend to have lower peak bone mass and smaller bones.
• Age: Bone loss accelerates as we get older, making the risk of osteoporosis greater with advancing age.
• Body size: Slender, thin-boned individuals have less bone mass to lose and are at higher risk.
• Race: Non-Hispanic white and Asian women have the highest risk, while African American and Hispanic women have a lower but still significant risk.
• Family history: If a parent has a history of osteoporosis or hip fracture, your risk may be increased.
• Hormonal changes: Low levels of certain hormones, such as estrogen in women, can contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis development.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent” disease because it typically does not have any noticeable symptoms until a bone is broken. Some potential symptoms of osteoporosis include:

• Severe back pain, often due to vertebral (spine) fractures
• Loss of height over time
• A stooped or hunched posture (kyphosis)

These symptoms may only become apparent after a bone has already been weakened to the point of fracturing, which is why osteoporosis is often not detected until a break occurs.

Causes of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis occurs when the body loses too much bone mass and the structure of the bone tissue changes. Several factors can contribute to the development of osteoporosis, including:

• Sex: Women are at higher risk due to lower peak bone mass and smaller bones.
• Age: Bone loss accelerates with age, making older individuals more susceptible.
• Body size: Slender, thin-boned individuals have less bone mass to lose.
• Race: Non-Hispanic white and Asian women have the highest risk, while African American and Hispanic women have a lower but still significant risk.
• Family history: If a parent has a history of osteoporosis or hip fracture, your risk may be increased.
• Hormonal changes: Low levels of certain hormones, such as estrogen in women, can contribute to bone loss.

Preventing Osteoporosis

While some risk factors for osteoporosis cannot be changed, there are steps you can take to help prevent the development of this bone disease and reduce the risk of fractures:

• Engage in regular weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, to help maintain bone health.
• Consume a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones.
• Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking, as these habits can contribute to bone loss.
• Take prescribed medications, if recommended by a healthcare provider, to help prevent fractures in individuals with osteoporosis.

Diagnosing and Treating Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is typically diagnosed through a bone density test, which measures the mineral content and density of the bones. This test can help identify individuals with low bone mass who are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Treatment for osteoporosis may include:

• Medications to slow or stop bone loss and increase bone density
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements to support bone health
• Physical therapy and exercise to improve balance and prevent falls

Early detection and appropriate treatment can help prevent fractures and maintain bone strength in individuals with osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis in Children and Teens

While osteoporosis is more common in older adults, a rare form of the disease called idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis can occur in children and teenagers. The cause of this condition is often unknown, but most children with idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis recover without the need for treatment. Healthcare providers may monitor these cases and provide guidance on maintaining bone health during the growing years.

Ongoing Research and Advancements

Researchers continue to study the causes, risk factors, and potential treatments for osteoporosis. Advances in diagnostic techniques, medications, and lifestyle interventions have helped improve the management and prevention of this bone disease. As our understanding of osteoporosis continues to evolve, healthcare providers can work with patients to develop personalized strategies for maintaining strong, healthy bones throughout the lifespan.

Osteoporosis Causes & Symptoms | NIAMS

Basics
In-Depth Read

• Overview, Symptoms, & Causes

• Diagnosis, Treatment, & Steps to Take

• More Info

Overview of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures (broken bones).

Osteoporosis is a “silent” disease because you typically do not have symptoms, and you may not even know you have the disease until you break a bone. Osteoporosis is the major cause of fractures in postmenopausal women and in older men. Fractures can occur in any bone but happen most often in bones of the hip, vertebrae in the spine, and wrist.

However, you can take steps to help prevent the disease and fractures by:

• Staying physically active by participating in weight-bearing exercises such as walking.
• Drinking alcohol in moderation.
• Quitting smoking, or not starting if you don’t smoke.
• Taking your medications, if prescribed, which can help prevent fractures in people who have osteoporosis.
• Eating a nutritious diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to help maintain good bone health.

Who Gets Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis affects women and men of all races and ethnic groups. Osteoporosis can occur at any age, although the risk for developing the disease increases as you get older. For many women, the disease begins to develop a year or two before menopause. Other factors to consider include:

• Osteoporosis is most common in non-Hispanic white women and Asian women.
• African American and Hispanic women have a lower risk of developing osteoporosis, but they are still at significant risk.
• Among men, osteoporosis is more common in non-Hispanic whites.

Certain medications, such as some cancer medications and glucocorticoid steroids, may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Because more women get osteoporosis than men, many men think they are not at risk for the disease. However, both older men and women from all backgrounds are at risk for osteoporosis.

Some children and teens develop a rare form of idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis. Doctors do not know the cause; however, most children recover without treatment.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is called a “silent” disease” because there are typically no symptoms until a bone is broken. Symptoms of vertebral (spine) fracture include severe back pain, loss of height, or spine malformations such as a stooped or hunched posture (kyphosis).

Bones affected by osteoporosis may become so fragile that fractures occur spontaneously or as the result of:

• Minor falls, such as a fall from standing height that would not normally cause a break in a healthy bone.
• Normal stresses such as bending, lifting, or even coughing.

Causes of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis occurs when too much bone mass is lost and changes occur in the structure of bone tissue. Certain risk factors may lead to the development of osteoporosis or can increase the likelihood that you will develop the disease.

Many people with osteoporosis have several risk factors, but others who develop osteoporosis may not have any specific risk factors. There are some risk factors that you cannot change, and others that you may be able to change. However, by understanding these factors, you may be able to prevent the disease and fractures.

Factors that may increase your risk for osteoporosis include:

• Sex. Your chances of developing osteoporosis are greater if you are a woman. Women have lower peak bone mass and smaller bones than men. However, men are still at risk, especially after the age of 70.
• Age. As you age, bone loss happens more quickly, and new bone growth is slower. Over time, your bones can weaken and your risk for osteoporosis increases.
• Body size. Slender, thin-boned women and men are at greater risk to develop osteoporosis because they have less bone to lose compared to larger boned women and men.
• Race. White and Asian women are at highest risk. African American and Mexican American women have a lower risk. White men are at higher risk than African American and Mexican American men.
• Family history. Researchers are finding that your risk for osteoporosis and fractures may increase if one of your parents has a history of osteoporosis or hip fracture.

• Changes to hormones. Low levels of certain hormones can increase your chances of developing osteoporosis. For example:
  • Low estrogen levels in women after menopause.
  • Low levels of estrogen from the abnormal absence of menstrual periods in premenopausal women due to hormone disorders or extreme levels of physical activity.
  • Low levels of testosterone in men. Men with conditions that cause low testosterone are at risk for osteoporosis. However, the gradual decrease of testosterone with aging is probably not a major reason for loss of bone.

• Diet. Beginning in childhood and into old age, a diet low in calcium and vitamin D can increase your risk for osteoporosis and fractures. Excessive dieting or poor protein intake may increase your risk for bone loss and osteoporosis.

• Other medical conditions. Some medical conditions that you may be able to treat or manage can increase the risk of osteoporosis, such as other endocrine and hormonal diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, certain types of cancer, HIV/AIDS, and anorexia nervosa.
• Medications. Long-term use of certain medications may make you more likely to develop bone loss and osteoporosis, such as:
  • Glucocorticoids and adrenocorticotropic hormone, which treat various conditions, such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Antiepileptic medicines, which treat seizures and other neurological disorders.
  • Cancer medications, which use hormones to treat breast and prostate cancer.
  • Proton pump inhibitors, which lower stomach acid.
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which treat depression and anxiety.
  • Thiazolidinediones, which treat type II diabetes.

• Lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle can be important for keeping bones strong. Factors that contribute to bone loss include:
  • Low levels of physical activity and prolonged periods of inactivity can contribute to an increased rate of bone loss. They also leave you in poor physical condition, which can increase your risk of falling and breaking a bone.
  • Chronic heavy drinking of alcohol  is a significant risk factor for osteoporosis.
  • Studies indicate that smoking is a risk factor for osteoporosis and fracture. Researchers are still studying if the impact of smoking on bone health is from tobacco use alone or if people who smoke have more risk factors for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis Related Information

Juvenile Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when the bones get weaker and less dense. When a child or teen develops osteoporosis, the condition is known as juvenile osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis in Men

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the quality or structure of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of broken bones (fractures).

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Bone Health

How do pregnancy and breastfeeding affect a woman’s bones? Calcium is in high demand during both pregnancy and breastfeeding – since it is needed to support the baby’s growth and development in the mother’s womb and after birth.

Preventing Another Broken Bone

After you break a bone, recovery is your first priority. But you might want to find out whether this broken bone is a sign of osteoporosis.

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Osteopenia Causes | Jean Hailes

Causes of osteoporosis & osteopenia

There are many causes of osteoporosis. Not only do bones lose density with age, medications used to treat breast cancer, arthritis, asthma, Crohn’s disease and Addison’s disease can also lower bone density. Some illnesses such as hyperthyroidism, hypopituaritism and eating disorders also cause bones to lose strength. You will find information on all of these causes of lowered bone density, along with the role of oestrogen in bone density.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become thinner, or lose ‘bone mineral density’. This leads to an increased risk for fractures. Osteoporosis is more common in women, especially after menopause. However, a number of conditions may be associated with a decrease in bone density.

The things that affect bone density include:

Ageing

Ageing reduces bone strength because more bone is broken down than can be made – everyone develops osteoporosis if they live long enough.

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol intake increases the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Breast cancer

Women with breast cancer have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis because of the treatments used and their effect on oestrogen levels.

Calcium

A lack of calcium affects bone strength and the muscles that support bones, so adequate intake is essential.

Corticosteroid therapy

A steroid replacement hormone including:

• Prednisolone
• Cortisone
• Hydrocortisone
• Dexamethasone

Long-term use (more than 2 months) of oral corticosteroid type medications, with doses of more than 5-7. 5mg of prednisolone per day, increases the risk of developing osteoporosis[1] by reducing bone formation and bone density

If other risk factors for osteoporosis (such as being postmenopausal) are present, the effect on bones will be more severe

Corticosteroid therapy may be prescribed for a variety of conditions such as:

• chronic airways disease
• asthma
• rheumatoid arthritis
• inflammatory bowel diseases (i.e. Crohn’s disease)
• certain skin conditions
• inflammatory conditions such as polymyalgia rheumatic (affects muscles and joints causing pain and stiffness)
• Addison’s disease: This causes a deficiency in the hormone cortisol and is treated with corticosteroid drugs to replace the cortisol

Eating disorders
(including anorexia nervosa and bulimia)

• Eating disorders cause a loss of bone density because they create deficiencies in nutrition, which in turn affects hormone levels
• If you stop having your periods (due to poor nutrition and/or excessive exercise routines) this reduces your oestrogen level, which reduces your bone density

Eating disorders in early adolescence, when the skeleton is in the process of growing, severely reduce the potential to achieve peak bone mass and this can lead to osteoporosis in women as young as the early 20s. If you develop an eating disorder after the process of skeletal growth has been completed you still risk reducing your bone mineral density.

Excessive exercise

• Although exercise is vital for the development of peak bone mass in childhood and adolescence, excessive or elite level exercise in the adolescent years may have negative effects on your ability to achieve peak bone mass
• Athletes who have periods tend to have normal or increased bone density, whereas athletes who do not menstruate have reduced bone density[2]
• Some activities can help maintain or increase bone mass

Family history

You are at increased risk of osteoporosis if you have a family member with osteoporosis, especially a parent or sibling who has had a hip fracture.

Hormones

A drop in oestrogen can cause a loss in bone strength and this means bone density may be decreased:

• if you have late onset of menstrual periods
• absent or infrequent menstrual periods
• by premature or early menopause
• with menopause

Hyperthyroidism
(overactive thyroid)

• High concentrations of thyroid hormone can lead to more bone breakdown than bone formation, which affects bone density and causes osteoporosis
• Graves’ disease can result in an overactive thyroid
• If the thyroid condition is treated with a thyroxine hormone (sold as Oroxine and Eutroxsig), there has been concern that an over replacement may also impact on bone health

Hypopituitarism
(pituitary gland failure)

• Hypopituitarism can cause a deficiency in cortisol and the usual treatment is long-term replacement of the cortisol with corticosteroid drugs
• There is increasing evidence the doses of corticosteroid drugs to replace the cortisol can lead to osteoporosis – usually this is when the dosage is too high or when there are other co-existing risk factors for osteoporosis

Illness/diseases

Illness or diseases, and sometimes their treatments, can affect bone strength including:

• chronic liver disease
• chronic kidney disease
• Coeliac disease

Physical inactivity

Lack of physical activity reduces bone and muscle strength, which increases the risk of fractures and falls.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disorder that may affect tissues and organs, but principally attacks flexible joints (i.e. elbows and knees). It is a condition affecting approximately 1% of the population, with women affected around 3 times more than men.

If prednisolone is prescribed as part of the medical treatment, this can also lead to the development of osteoporosis, especially in bones adjacent to the affected joints.

Smoking

Smoking, especially how much you smoke, can cause:

• a significant reduction in bone density leading to an increased risk of fracture
• you to experience menopause 1.5-2 years earlier, so you risk developing osteoporosis earlier than average

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D can reduce the body’s ability to absorb the calcium required for bone strength.

Lack of oestrogen & bone health

The sex hormone oestrogen plays a vital role in the development of bones.

Adolescence – 20’s

• During puberty (10-17 years) sex hormones increase rapidly and these increased levels of oestrogen and testosterone lead to increased bone mass
• The ongoing production of oestrogen is vital in adolescent females and young women to develop and maintain bone mass

30’s – 40’s

• The balance between bone loss and bone formation changes around 30 years of age and you start to lose more bone than you make
• In the years immediately before menopause there can be a drop in oestrogen levels and this can lead to a reduction in bone mineral density[3]

Menopause

• Menopause means a dramatic fall in oestrogen levels and the loss of bone is accelerated
• This period of significant bone loss can last from 4-8 years after the onset of menopause
  • Bone loss is most severe during the first 3 years after menopause when you may lose approximately 2% of bone mass per year in your spine, hip or wrist
  • The rate of bone loss then slows and you may lose less than 1% of bone density at the hip per year and less in the spine[4]

** Currently under review **

This web page is designed to be informative and educational. It is not intended to provide specific medical advice or replace advice from your health practitioner. The information above is based on current medical knowledge, evidence and practice as at December 2013.

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Osteopenia – causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

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Contents of the article:

• Danger of osteopenia
• Causes of osteopenia
• Signs of bone osteopenia
• Diagnosis of osteopenia
• Treatment of bone osteopenia
• Stages of development
• Species of osteopenia
• Complications of osteopenia
• Prevention of osteopenia

Danger of osteopenia

As a result of age-related changes, bone cells are destroyed faster than new ones are formed, so the bones become thinner. An imbalance in the mechanism can lead to a decrease in bone mass. Bones become brittle and prone to fracture due to changes in the chemical composition of the bone structure. This is due to the process of human physiology. By the age of 30, bones in a person reach maximum strength, therefore, the stronger the bones at this age, the later will be the decrease in mineral density and decrease in bone mass. Bone mass loss in men and women occurs at different rates. It depends on the hormonal background of women, so it increases significantly during menopause and after 55 years. In men, bone mass does not depend on age and changes at a constant rate throughout life.

Causes of the disease

The development of osteopenia begins when processes that affect the formation of bones occur in the body. The disease depends on individual characteristics: gender, age, physical activity and heredity. Risk factors include:

• Underweight.
• Sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work, lack of physical activity.
• Abuse of drinks containing caffeine.
• Bad habits: drinking and smoking.
• Calcium deficiency in the body.
• Chronic inflammation due to diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
• diseases of internal organs: liver, lungs, kidneys.
• Celiac disease is an autoimmune, hereditary disease of the digestive tract.
• Radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Signs of osteopenia

As long as there are no painful fractures, for example, of the hip or vertebrae, osteopenia does not cause discomfort or pain. The pathological condition can be asymptomatic for a long time until a diagnosis is made. Sometimes there are symptoms that indirectly indicate pathology, for example, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, metabolic failure, joint pain, stiffness of motor functions, diseases of the lumbar spine, injuries, and the development of vascular diseases.

Diagnosis of osteopenia

For examination, blood and urine tests are prescribed, as well as hormonal parameters, calcium and phosphorus levels are checked, because osteopenia develops due to their lack. The presence of osteopenia can be diagnosed using spectral imaging of bone mineral density (BMD) with two x-rays with different energy levels. This method is called absorptiometry. Densitometry, both quantitative ultrasound and peripheral bone densitometry, is a method of X-ray scanning of the internal structure of bones, is prescribed to determine the level of nutrients and minerals in bone tissue, mainly in the region of the femoral head, wrist, shoulder and knee joints, as well as to determine risk of injury.
Sometimes additional hardware diagnostic methods are used, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

According to statistics, osteopenia most often affects women over 55 years of age. In men, the development of this disease begins later due to a higher BMD. For the prevention of women’s health during menopause, complex laboratory diagnostics are recommended. Especially if there are such risk factors as: European type, osteoporosis in the family, low body weight, long-term treatment with corticosteroids, bad habits.

Treatment of osteopenia

Patients with osteopenia should change the quality of nutrition, it is important to move more, take vitamin D, calcium and some other trace elements, not only with food, but also in the form of special supplements.

Daily intake of vitamin D: women over 70 years old – 800 IU, men and women of young age – 600 IU, and children under 1 year old – 400 IU.
Calcium intake per day: women over 45 years old and men over 55 years old – 1000 mg, women over 55 years old and men over 70 years old – 1200 mg. Calcium is taken fractionally, not more than 600 mg at a time.

First of all, doctors begin to treat a disease that provokes bone fragility, such as celiac disease, diabetes, enlarged endocrine glands.
The disease therapy program is compiled depending on the clinical results of the diagnosis, taking into account such risk factors as: hereditary predisposition, physique, chronic diseases. Calcitonin and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone are often prescribed. The use of special preparations is not required. However, bisphosphonates should be used in exceptional cases, because their use as a prophylaxis for skeletal fractures usually leads to side effects. Therefore, the doctor monitors the dynamics of changes in bone density.

In addition to drug treatment, the treatment of osteopenia includes osteopathy: therapeutic massage, exercise therapy (therapeutic physical culture).

Stages of development

There are three stages of osteopenia: to be.
second stage – decrease in bone density is more severe, accompanied by a risk of fractures and a feeling of pain between the shoulder blades and in the lower back. There is discomfort and stiffness during movement.
third stage – a chronic form of pathology, the appearance of arthritis, arthrosis, osteoporosis and other diseases.

Types of osteopenia

According to statistics, osteopenia in women is observed more often than in men due to the peculiarities of the hormonal background. Women in the menopausal period and over 50 years of age are at risk. Abortions, breastfeeding, professional sports negatively affect the structure of bones, since in these situations more estrogens and microelements are required.
Osteopenia in children appears very rarely, may occur due to serious genetic abnormalities, hypertrophy, and also during puberty.

Classification by cause of occurrence
There are four groups:

• • The senile form appears due to the development of friability in the bone structure.
  • Post-traumatic form due to trauma and mechanical damage to the bones.
  • Postmenopausal form due to hormonal disruptions in the body of women during menopause.
  • Dosage due to long-term use of corticosteroids.

Complications of osteopenia

If you do not change your lifestyle and start treatment with medication in a timely manner, the risk of fractures in different parts of the body increases. Due to the progression of the disease, there may be a limitation of motor function, as well as the development of osteoarthritis, sciatica, rheumatism. In severe cases, even disability is possible.

Prevention of osteopenia

To minimize the risk of developing osteopenia, it is necessary to lead an active lifestyle, do not consume alcohol and tobacco, eat well, including a diet, taking vitamin D and calcium in sufficient quantities.
It is necessary to strengthen bone tissue until the age of 30, until its density has reached its maximum. The process of loss of bone density can be prevented, and the development of osteoporosis significantly slowed down with a balanced diet, regular active exercise.
Make an appointment for an initial appointment at the medical center so that such specialists as: endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, rheumatologist and even a neurologist can conduct an examination at the clinic. At the consultation, doctors prescribe tests to make a diagnosis, and also choose a drug therapy regimen.

Make an appointment with an osteopath

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Zhilina Anzhela Lvovna

Osteopath, pediatric neurologist, doctor of the first category

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Somov Dmitry Alekseevich

Oste opat

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Muschak
Vladimir Ilyich

Osteopath

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Petrov Vladimir Konstantinovich

Osteopath, pediatrician, pediatric surgeon

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what is this disease and how to treat it

Contents

• 1 Osteoporosis: a disease that leads to brittle bones
  • 1. 1 Osteoporosis: what is this disease?
    • 1.1.1 Description of the disease
    • 1.1.2 Causes
    • 1.1.3 Symptoms
  • 1.2 Causes of osteoporosis
  • 1.3 Risk factors for osteoporosis
  • 1.4 Symptoms of osteoporosis: how to recognize the disease in time
  • 1.5 Diagnosis osteoporosis
  • 1.6 Treatment of osteoporosis
  • 1.7 Osteoporosis: what is it and how to treat it
    • 1.7.1 Prevention of osteoporosis
  • 1.8 Diet for osteoporosis
    • 1.8.1 What to include in the diet?
    • 1.8.2 What to exclude from the diet?
  • 1.9 Practical tips for preventing osteoporosis
    • 1.9.1 Exercise health care
  • 1.11 Bone strengthening vitamins
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What is osteoporosis?
      • 1.13.0.2 Who is at risk of developing osteoporosis?
      • 1.13.0.3 What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
      • 1. 13.0.4 How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
      • 1.13.0.5 What should be the diet for osteoporosis?
      • 1.13.0.6 How to treat osteoporosis?

Definition and causes of a disease in which the bones become extremely brittle and prone to frequent fractures. Symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease of the skeletal system, which is characterized by a decrease in bone density and disturbances in their architectonics. Bone cells are in constant remodeling, but in patients with osteoporosis, the balance between bone destruction and new tissue creation is disrupted, resulting in decreased bone density and increased bone fragility.

In world practice, osteoporosis is recognized as one of the main diseases of the skeleton, since its statistics among the female and male population has been growing rapidly in the last decade. The risk of developing the disease increases with age, and every third woman suffers, every fourth man after 60 years of age. However, in young people, the modern lifestyle disrupts calcium metabolism, nutrition and vital activity, which also increases the risk of developing osteoporosis in later periods.

In the article we will consider the symptoms and prevention of osteoporosis, as well as the main methods of its diagnosis and treatment.

Osteoporosis: what is it?

Description of the disease

Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which bones become brittle and easily fractured. This is due to a decrease in bone density and mass, which occurs due to the loss of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Osteoporosis can occur at any age, but it most commonly affects women after menopause and men over 50 years of age.

Causes

Causes of osteoporosis include various factors such as heredity, lack of vitamin D and calcium, lack of physical activity, smoking, alcohol and a number of medical problems such as hormonal imbalances and long-term use of certain drugs, including anticonvulsants.

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoporosis may include painful fractures, especially in the lower back, wrist or hip, loss of height, changes in the shape of the spine, and a hump. But often osteoporosis resolves without symptoms, so it is important to conduct regular diagnostics and take measures for prevention and treatment.

Causes of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease caused by impaired calcium metabolism in the bones of the body. As a result, the formation of new bone cells slows down, and the process of destruction accelerates. Most often, this disease can be found in women, especially in the postmenopausal period. This is due to a decrease in the level of female sex hormones – estrogens, which favor the preservation of bone mass.

Bone health is also negatively affected by a lack of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D in human nutrition, alcohol abuse and tobacco smoking. Often, osteoporosis can be the result of long-term therapy with drugs that reduce the level of thyroid hormones or glucocorticoids.

• Retired women are particularly at risk for osteoporosis.
• Unbalanced nutrition and vitamin deficiency also contribute to the development of the disease.
• Heavy physical activity, especially involving frequent falls (for example, in athletes), contributes to early aging of bone tissue.

Thus, to prevent the occurrence of osteoporosis, it is necessary to monitor your diet, include foods containing calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D in your diet, and do not abuse alcohol and smoking. It is also important to consult a doctor in time and not to prescribe long-term therapy with hormonal drugs without the appointment of a specialist. Regular medical examinations contribute to the timely detection of bone tissue disorders and the successful fight against the disease.

Risk factors for osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that reduces bone density and increases the risk of fractures. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of this disease.

1. Age. Bones become less dense and more fragile with age, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
2. Female. Women suffer from osteoporosis much more often than men. This is due to the fact that in women after menopause, the level of estrogens, which help maintain bone tissue, decreases.
3. Low levels of calcium and vitamin D. Deficiency of calcium and vitamin D can lead to loss of calcium from bones and decrease in bone density.
4. Smoking and drinking. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may reduce bone density and increase the risk of fractures.
5. Sedentary lifestyle. Lack of physical activity can lead to bone loss and reduced bone density.

These are just some of the factors that can increase the risk of osteoporosis. It is important to be aware of these factors and take risk-reducing measures, such as increasing calcium and vitamin D intake, moderate exercise, and avoiding bad habits.

Symptoms of osteoporosis: how to find out about the disease in time

Osteoporosis is a dangerous disease that begins to develop in the human body without any noticeable symptoms. However, over time, it becomes noticeable that the bones have become more fragile and brittle. Also, there is a decrease in height, a change in posture and the possibility of bone fractures even with minor injuries.

It is important to understand that the symptoms of osteoporosis are due to its progressive development, and the sooner treatment is started, the more likely it is to get rid of the disease completely.

• Incidence of bone fractures . It is observed even with minor blows or injuries.
• Growth reduction . It most often occurs in postmenopausal women. It is associated with a decrease in bone density and a decrease in their strength.
• Change in posture . Most patients feel a lack of direct back support and literally protruding ribs.

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t put off seeing an orthopedic doctor. Only a professional doctor will be able to give an objective assessment of the condition and adjust the treatment.

Diagnosis of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis appears late and may not have symptoms for the first few years. For the diagnosis of osteoporosis, it is necessary to conduct special studies. They are divided into two types: screening and confirmatory.

Screening tests are done to identify the potential risk of osteoporosis. They can be compared to an x-ray examination that allows you to assess bone density. Densitometry is used for this purpose, which helps to diagnose and determine the magnitude of the risk. Blood tests may also be done at screening to check calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels. cycle. If you are at risk for osteoporosis, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by a decrease in bone density and mass, which increases the risk of fractures. Treatment of osteoporosis is aimed at strengthening the bone tissue and preventing the development of new fractures.

Primary therapy includes calcium and vitamin D supplements to help restore bone structure. It is also important to control the level of hormones in the body, especially in women after menopause.

In some cases, bisphosphonates may be prescribed, which help reduce the risk of fractures and slow down the process of bone destruction. Your doctor may also prescribe exercise and a calcium-rich diet.

It is important to understand that the treatment of osteoporosis is a long-term process that requires adherence to medical advice and a disciplined approach to medication and exercise.

Osteoporosis: what is it and how to treat it

Prevention of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that often develops in older people. However, some people experience this problem at a young age. To avoid the development of the disease, it is recommended to follow several rules of prevention.

• Active lifestyle. To strengthen bones and improve their density, regular sports or exercise is recommended.
• Healthy eating. It is important to eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones.
• Maintain normal weight. Being overweight can worsen bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption. Nicotine and alcohol adversely affect bone density.

Following these simple rules will help prevent or slow down the progress of osteoporosis. However, if the disease has already begun to develop, it is necessary to consult a doctor for treatment.

Osteoporosis diet

What to include in the diet?

Osteoporosis requires complex treatment, including proper nutrition. It is important to use products that help strengthen bone tissue and enriched with calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D.

• dairy products – milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese and kefir
• fish – sardines, salmon or eel
• Nuts and seeds
• green vegetables – spinach, broccoli, cabbage, turnip
• Fruit – oranges, dates, prunes and kiwi
• Eggs

You should also control salt levels, reduce caffeine, cola and alcohol intake. It is equally important to increase water intake to ensure normal metabolism and metabolism of substances.

What to exclude from the diet?

In case of osteoporosis, it is not recommended to consume foods that contribute to negative changes in bone tissue. This is primarily for simple carbohydrates, quick snacks, fast food and foods high in sugar and salt.

• Carbonated drinks
• Bread, pastries, rolls
• Chips, salted nuts and snacks
• Margarine, fried and salty foods
• Alcohol

900 04 Choose a cooking method that does not destroy valuable vitamins and minerals in foods. If you are not sure that the purchased products contain everything you need, then you can purchase special supplements that strengthen bone tissue.

Practical tips for preventing osteoporosis

Exercise

In addition to healthy eating, experts recommend exercising to strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis.

After studying scientific research, experts suggest focusing on the following exercises:

• Walking – helps to strengthen bone tissue, improve coordination of movements.
• Heavy exercise – such as jumping, running, heavy aerobics – also helps to strengthen bones daily.
• Bodyweight activities – dancing, swimming, running in place.
• Yoga – increases muscle strength obtained from small loads on the bones.

Doing some light exercise every day will help strengthen your bones and prevent serious illness.

Training should be appropriate for age and physical condition organism. Going to classes, you must be extremely careful and follow the recommendations of the instructors.

Osteoporosis: what is it and how to treat it

Drug treatment

Drug treatment of osteoporosis is aimed at slowing bone loss and reducing the risk of fractures. It may include different drug groups such as:

• Bisphosphonates. These drugs reduce bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. They can counteract osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bones.
• Calcium metabolism regulators. They improve bone synthesis and block the excretion of calcium from the body.
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements. They are important for bone health and help restore lost calcium and vitamin D.
• Hormone supplements. These are mainly estrogen-containing products that can replace those lost in women during menopause.
• Bone resorption inhibitors. They prevent bone breakdown and increase bone density.

In each case, the treatment of osteoporosis must be individualized and prescribed by a specialist doctor. It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations and undergo regular examinations to evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen therapy.

Bone Strengthening Vitamins

Strengthening bones is important for preventing osteoporosis, and for this our body needs a number of vitamins and minerals.

• Vitamin D – helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bones. Its sources are sunlight, oily fish, red meat, eggs, and various types of mushrooms.
• Vitamin K – is involved in the formation of bone material, and also helps to reduce the risk of fractures. It is found in green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, as well as fish oil and egg yolks.
• Calcium – is the main building component of bones and helps them stay strong. Dairy products, hard cheese, leafy vegetables, tangerines, dates and other foods are good sources of calcium.
• Magnesium – participates in the process of bone mineralization and helps to have healthy large bones. Sources of magnesium are eggs, green vegetables, bananas, beans and other foods.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about what vitamins and supplements you need to help your bones stay strong and strong.

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Q&A:

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease in which the density of bones decreases, making them more fragile and prone to fracture. Osteoporosis occurs due to a lack of calcium, vitamin D, hormones, and other nutrients important for bone health.

Who is at risk of developing osteoporosis?

The risk of developing osteoporosis increases with age, especially in post-menopausal women and in people with thyroid, kidney, and other conditions that can affect bone health. Also, the development of osteoporosis is affected by bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse), low physical activity and malnutrition.

What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis can develop without significant symptoms for a long time, but with age, the bones become brittle and can easily break with the slightest injury. Also, with osteoporosis, severe back pain can occur, height decreases, and posture changes.

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis of osteoporosis involves measuring bone density using special techniques such as dual beam absorptiometry and computed tomography. Blood and urine tests may also be done to determine levels of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients needed for bone health.

What should be the diet for osteoporosis?

Getting enough calcium, vitamin D, protein and other nutrients is important for bone health. The diet should include foods rich in calcium, such as dairy products, nuts, fish, green vegetables, as well as foods containing vitamin D, such as oily fish, egg yolk, mushrooms.