Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis - All That You Must Know

Osteoporosis, a bone-related disease, is a condition where the bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, or the structure or quality of the bone changes. With osteoporosis, the affected person is at a greater risk of fracture due to decreased bone strength. The bones become weak and brittle. Even a small fall or subtle stress on the bones can cause a fracture. Osteoporosis typically causes fractures in the hip, wrist, and spine.

Early Warning Signs of Osteoporosis

About 54 million people in the US have osteoporosis. Although it impacts both genders, women are more likely to get osteoporosis. Usually, there are no visible signs, however, there are some early warning signs of osteoporosis to look out for  -

• Reduction in height
• A stooped or hunched posture
• Back pain
• Shortness of breath
• Bone fractures

What causes osteoporosis?

Although the exact cause is unknown, researchers do understand how it develops. Our bodies are constantly changing. Just like body tissue, our bones are renewed as old and damaged bone breaks down. This transformation happens faster when we are younger and most people attain peak bone mass by age thirty. As we age, we lose bone mass faster than it is created. 

The likelihood of osteoporosis developing depends on how much bone mass we have in our youth. The higher the bone mass, the better it is, and the lesser the likelihood of developing osteoporosis in later years.

While the exact cause of osteoporosis is unknown, there are certain risk factors for we should be aware of, such as:

• Gender: Women are more likely to get osteoporosis than men.
• Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age for both genders.
• Race: White and Asian ethnic groups are more likely to develop this disease.
• Body size: Thin and lean men and women are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
• Hormonal change: Low levels of male and female hormones can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Diet: A diet that is low in calcium and vitamin D could lead to developing osteoporosis.
• Lifestyle habits: Little or no physical activity, chronic drinking, or smoking increase the chances of osteoporosis.

Is osteoporosis genetic?

Yes, osteoporosis is genetic. Research has found that our genes play an important part in passing on this disease. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons mentions that the chance of developing osteoporosis increases if:

• There is a family history of osteoporosis
• There is a history  of fractures on the maternal side of the family.

Types of Osteoporosis

There two types of osteoporosis - Primary and Secondary.

1. Primary osteoporosis

There is no direct cause for the most common type known as primary osteoporosis which occurs with age. There are  two sub-types known as Type I and Type II.

• Type I is more common in women andit is also called postmenopausal osteoporosis. It develops at 50-70 years old when estrogen levels begin to decline. Wrist and spine fractures are common in this type.
• Type II develops after age 70 and is also known as senile osteoporosis. In this type, hip and spine fractures are common.

2. Secondary osteoporosis

If an underlying condition causes osteoporosis, it comes under the secondary type. Kidney failure, leukemia, and thyroid disease are some such conditions which can cause secondary osteoporosis. Certain medications, like that for breast cancer, can also cause secondary osteoporosis. However if this type is found early, it can be reversed by stopping the medication. 

Can osteoporosis be treated? 

Bone loss cannot be easily recovered. However, certain supplements have been found to  prevent the consequences of osteoporosis, such as fractures. Regular vitamin D and calcium intake and being physically active can also help  treat osteoporosis.Here are some treatment options that you can discuss with your doctor:

• Supplements: Calcium and Vitamin D supplements to maintain bone strength.
• Medications: Certain medications can help slow down the pace of bone loss.
• Hormone-related therapy: This is mostly recommended for menopausal women. For men, this may be recommended if they suffer from low testosterone levels.
• Physical therapy: Regular physical therapy can strengthen and stabilize the bones to prevent falls and fractures.
• Mobility aids: Canes, walkers, or any other assistive aids to maintain balance while walking and to prevent falls.

What is the difference between osteoporosis and osteoarthritis? 

Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are often confused for one another. While, osteoporosis is a condition where bone density reduces, making the bones weaker and brittle. Any stress or fall could result in a fracture. Osteoarthritis affects the joints and causes pain, reduces mobility and occurs because of the wear and tear of the protective cartilage around the joints.

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Osteoporosis makes the body fragile and any fall or misstep could lead to broken bones. Taking vitamin D and calcium and maintaining a healthy lifestyle which includes exercise will help to strengthen your bones. If you suspect that you are at risk for this debilitating condition, avoid slippery surfaces, difficult-to-walk terrains and talk to your doctor.

 

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