Osteoporosis generally refers to a condition where the bones generally become weak and fragile and they tend to break. The problem is acute in case of older people and it is seen that the bones of hips, wrist and spine become very fragile causing this problem.
The most dangerous problem of osteoporosis is that there are no such warnings or any indications and the bone snaps without any prior problems. Deficiency of any kind in the bones can cause this problem. Women are worst affected by this disease especially after menopause.
According to a study it is seen that this kind of fragile bone condition is common among women. Men tend to be less affected by this disease. Almost 230,000 cases are reported where fractures of the bones are caused by osteoporosis.
After the age of 50 the problem is common in one woman out of two. As for the men the ratio is less as only one person out of five are affected by such a problem. As for the younger generation the predisposing factors are common for osteoporosis.
Causes of Osteoporosis
People after the age of 35 should be careful about this problem. After this age it is seen that most of the bone cells are lost resulting in the decrease in the density of bones. As people grow older, they become less immuned and tend to “shrink” which is also instrumental in the development of “dowgar’s hump”.
It is known that after menopause the decrease in the density of bones speed up, increasing the chances of osteoporosis. If the women have menopause in an earlier age and their ovaries are removed they can face this problem. According to cases reported the other causes for the disease include unnecessary and excessive dieting or exercising.
If the person concerned has missed her period for more than six months, they can consult a doctor as there are chances of this problem. Men with low levels of testosterone have such a problem. For both the sexes there are some common causes which are instrumental for such a problem. Maternal osteoporosis, drinking, smoking, usage of corticosteroid medications, sedentary lifestyles can affect the bones.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
There are may be no prior warnings as even a fall or a minor bump can cause a fracture. The pain might be unbearable at times and the problem can result to loss of independence or disability. However it is you who can ask yourself some questions to know whether your bones are really that fragile.
A woman should ask herself whether she had a premature menopause before the age of 45 or not and whether she was having a problem with the foods which might hamper her periods. People who have a history of such fractures or trauma can take the help of X-rays which in turn can lead to such a problem.
You can also take note of your weight loss and see whether it was drastic in the last 10 years or steroids users can think of a problem that is recurring. People who have family members with a history of osteoporosis can consult the doctors. If there is any immobility or a chronic illness like thyroids, arthritis, or any hormonal problems can be more careful.
A DEXA scan will reveal if you have osteoporosis. Consultation with a doctor is must and several examinations and blood tests will reveal whether the person concerned is suffering from osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis Treatment
Oestrogen can help to reduce the problem of osteoporosis. When the doctor is consulted he will prescribe Vitamin D supplements or calcium. He can also advise HRT or SERMS both of which are known as hormonal treatments, drugs like bisphosphonates are used for the prevention of the breaking of bones and these are really helpful in the treatment of osteoporosis.
Advice
After the middle age the bone structure of an individual tends to be come fragile, so take good care of your health especially your bones. Include a lot of vitamins and calcium in the diet which prevent the breaking of bones. If the general health of a person is good he is less likely to face such a problem. Reduce smoking and drinking and do some proper exercise like weight-bearing exercises which helps in the maintenance of bone density.
