What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a common bone disease where bone density and strength are reduced over time. This leads to fragile bones that are more susceptible to fractures. Specifically, osteoporosis occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both.
Who is at risk?
Osteoporosis affects mostly older women, but it can happen to anyone with the following risk factors:
- Older age, especially women past menopause
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Low calcium intake
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Small, thin body frame
Additionally, certain medications, diseases, and lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol intake can increase osteoporosis risk.
What happens inside the bones?
- Bones are constantly broken down and rebuilt in a process called "bone remodeling."
- In osteoporosis, more bone is broken down than rebuilt, leaving the bone less dense.
- Over time, the bones develop microscopic cracks that weaken the framework.
What are common symptoms?
Unfortunately, osteoporosis has no symptoms until weakened bones fracture. Common osteoporotic fractures occur in the:
- Wrist
- Spine
- Hip
How is it diagnosed and treated?
- Doctors diagnose osteoporosis using bone density scans to measure bone mineral density (BMD).
- Treatment focuses on preventing further bone loss through lifestyle changes and if needed, medications.
- Good nutrition, weight-bearing exercise, fall prevention, and quitting smoking can help reduce bone loss.
- Several FDA-approved medications treat osteoporosis by slowing bone loss or helping rebuild bone.
The takeaway: Osteoporosis makes bones weak and brittle over time, greatly increasing fracture risks. While concerning, early diagnosis and proper treatment can strengthen bones and promote healthy aging. If you have osteoporosis risk factors, see your doctor for evaluations. Together you can create a game plan to improve bone health.