Understanding Osteoporosis: Your Questions Answered

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. It occurs when bone density decreases and the body loses too much bone mass.

Common Risk Factors

• Age (especially post-menopausal women)
• Family history
• Low body weight
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Certain medications (e.g., long-term corticosteroids)

How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?

• DEXA Scan: The primary diagnostic tool
• T-score interpretation:
  • Above -1: Normal bone density
  • -1 to -2.5: Osteopenia
  • Below -2.5: Osteoporosis

Treatment Options

1. Medications:

   • Bisphosphonates
   • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)
   • Hormone therapy
   • Biologics

2. Lifestyle Changes:

   • Regular weight-bearing exercise
   • Adequate calcium intake (1000-1200mg daily)
   • Vitamin D supplementation (800-1000 IU daily)
   • Smoking cessation

Prevention Strategies

• Early bone density screening
• Regular exercise
• Balanced nutrition
• Fall prevention measures

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Sudden back pain
• Loss of height
• Change in posture
• Unexplained fractures