Understanding Osteoporosis: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures. It occurs when the body loses too much bone mass or makes too little bone tissue, or both.

Risk Factors

• Age (especially post-menopausal women)
• Family history
• Small body frame
• Low calcium intake
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Certain medications (e.g., long-term corticosteroids)

Common Symptoms

• Early stages: Often no symptoms ("silent disease")
• Advanced stages:
  • Back pain
  • Loss of height
  • Stooped posture
  • Bone fractures from minor injuries

Diagnosis

• Bone Density Test (DEXA scan)
• X-rays
• Risk assessment tools

Treatment Options

1. Medications:

   • Bisphosphonates
   • Hormone therapy
   • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)
   • Biologics

2. Lifestyle Changes:

   • Regular weight-bearing exercise
   • Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
   • Fall prevention strategies
   • Smoking cessation

Prevention Strategies

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Regular exercise, especially weight-bearing activities
• Regular bone density screenings
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Quit smoking

When to See Your Doctor

• If you're over 50 and have risk factors
• After menopause
• If you've experienced height loss
• Following a low-impact fracture