Osteoporosis is quite a common condition, where the affected person’s skeletal structure weakens, causing the bones to break easily. This leads to an increased risk of fractures. In this condition, the Bone Mineral Density (BDM) reduces, the bone micro-architecture gets disrupted and the variety and amount of protein in the bones gets altered.
This condition affects women more commonly, and was regarded as a woman’s disease earlier on. It may develop in men too, but since men have larger skeletons their bone-loss starts much later and progresses at a slower rate and they do not have a period of rapid bone loss and hormonal change. Because of its influence in the risk of fragility fracture, it can affect the life expectancy and quality in both men and women.
Osteoporosis is often referred to as the Silent Disease, as it is not discernable till a person suffers from a fracture.
Causes of Osteoporosis Osteoporosis can occurs mainly where there is an imbalance between bone re-absorption and new bone formation. The body could reabsorb too much of the old bone, or may not form sufficient amounts of new bone. The minerals that are required to form new bones are calcium and phosphate. The body also requires calcium to ensure that the heart, brain, and other organs function normally. Therefore, the body reabsorbs the calcium that is stored in the bones. Due to lack of sufficient levels of calcium, the bone tissues and bone production may suffer. The bones then become weaker, brittle and fragile because of which they break easily.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis In the early stages, osteoporosis has no symptoms, however, as the condition progresses it could lead to a dull ache in the bones or muscles, especially the lower back or neck. Towards the later stages, sudden, sharp pains may be experienced. Osteoporosis usually leads to a fracture in case of an injury to the bones.
Treatment for Osteoporosis Treating osteoporosis as early as possible is very important. The treatment focuses on stopping the loss of minerals, reducing fractures, increasing bone density and controlling the pain. Therefore, the treatment requires a combination of taking the right medication, undergoing therapy, exercising and maintaining a healthy weight and following a healthy diet. Exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, using rowing machines, and weight-bearing exercises are usually recommended for osteoporosis patients. However, before starting any exercise or diet program, it is important to check with your doctor first. In order to ensure that you get the right medication and therapy, you will need to consult your doctor.
